5.2.1 Propagation by Grafting
It is the recommended method for vegetative propagation. Some methods of grafting are: Approach Graft, Cleft Graft, Bud Graft and Four Flap Grafting. The technique that has demonstrated to be most effective for the three species of Pouteria is the Veneer Graft. It will be discussed in the following section with emphasis on the Mamey Sapote.
Preliminary Considerations
- The success in graft "take" depends primarily in the compatibility of the rootstock, the scion (part of the tree with characteristics desirable for grafting) and the physiological state of the scion. For Pouteria Sapota, green sapote (Pouteria Viridis) can be used as rootstock and vice-versa.
- It is convenient to obtain the scion from the tree when it reaches a 75-90% defoliation. (Fig 3) They should be closed and puffy, totally defoliated (without leaves). With this method, a 80-90% graft take is obtained. This compares with only 40% graft take if the scion are prepared with young leaves.
- The scion should have a diameter from 1/2" to 3/4" and a length of 4 1/2" to 6". They should have 10-12 lateral buds. They should also be used as soon as possible because the graft "take" percentage reduces from 80% to 30% after 7 days. It is recommend to store the scions wrapped in humid paper inside plastic bags at 41F.
- The rootstock should have at least 3/4" diameter and 12" in height at the time of grafting. This is approximately 10 months after planting the seedlings.