Grafting and variety replacement in Tea trees is a commonly used technique in tea production, and the cleft grafting method is the most frequently used grafting method. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the application of the cleft grafting method in tea tree grafting, including its advantages, disadvantages, and operational steps.

I. Advantages of the Cleft Grafting Method

The cleft grafting method, as a simple and feasible grafting method, has the following advantages:

Simplicity of Operation: The technical requirements for the cleft grafting method are relatively low, making it easy to master and suitable for beginners. Through simple operations such as cutting the rootstock and trimming the scion, the grafting process can be completed.

High Survival Rate: The cleft grafting method ensures a close bond between the scion and rootstock's cambium layers, increasing the survival rate of the graft. Under suitable environmental conditions, using the cleft grafting method for tea tree grafting results in a high survival rate.

Wide Applicability: The cleft grafting method is applicable to rootstocks and scions of varying thicknesses, offering high flexibility. Whether large branches or small branches, as long as appropriate rootstocks and scions are chosen, cleft grafting can be performed.

II. Disadvantages of the Cleft Grafting Method

Despite its many advantages, the cleft grafting method also has some disadvantages:

High Requirements for Rootstocks: The cleft grafting method requires rootstocks with a certain thickness and hardness. If the rootstock is too thin or soft, it is difficult to perform the grafting operation. Therefore, special attention must be paid to the quality and thickness of the rootstock when selecting it.

High Environmental Requirements: The cleft grafting method needs to be performed under suitable temperature and humidity conditions. If the environmental conditions are unsuitable, it can affect the survival rate of the graft. Therefore, during the grafting process, it is necessary to control environmental conditions to ensure the survival rate of the graft.

Long Healing Time: The healing time for the cleft grafting method is relatively long, requiring a period of care and management to ensure successful grafting. Therefore, after grafting, later management and care need to be strengthened to improve the survival rate of the graft.

III. Operational Steps for the Cleft Grafting Method

Select Suitable Rootstocks and Scions: Choose healthy, disease-free tea trees as rootstocks, typically selecting a grafting site about 8-10 cm above ground level. Scions should be selected from high-quality, robust branches, approximately 2-3 cm in length, with 1-2 bud points.

Trim Rootstocks and Scions: Trim the outer edge of the rootstock to create a matching surface with the scion's cut surface, then split the rootstock along its center line to a depth of about 3-4 cm. The cut surface of the scion should be smooth and match the split of the rootstock. Ensure that the cut surface is smooth, approximately 2-3 cm in length, with 1-2 bud points below the cut surface.

Insert the Scion: Insert the trimmed scion into the split of the rootstock, ensuring that the cambial layers of the scion and rootstock align. Secure the joint tightly with plastic film or specialized grafting tape to maintain moisture and prevent water loss. Lightly sprinkle water on the joint to maintain a moist environment.

Latter Management: Strengthen water management to keep the soil surface moist, and promptly remove new shoots that emerge from the base of the rootstock. Uncover the film and nets at the appropriate time for hardening off seedlings. For spring or late autumn grafting, build a small arch-shaped shelter about 50 cm high; for summer and early autumn grafting, use shade nets with 60% shading.

Care and Observation: Regularly observe and maintain suitable humidity and temperature levels. After about 30 days, gently Peel back the plastic film or grafting tape to check the growth of the scion. If everything is normal, gradually remove the binding material. Approximately 75-100 days after grafting, the shade nets can be gradually removed to allow the young plants to adapt to sunlight. Subsequently, open-air care can be gradually initiated.

In summary, the cleft grafting method is a simple, feasible, and high-survival-rate method for grafting tea trees. In practical applications, it is important to select appropriate rootstocks and environmental conditions, follow the operational steps strictly, and strengthen later management and care. By continuously practicing and exploring, the survival rate of tea tree grafts can be improved, providing better assurance for tea production.