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Precision Agriculture : Optimizing Sapota Yields with Expertise in Approach Grafting Techniques for Indian Farmers

Approach grafting : Approach or inarch grafting is commercial method of propagation in sapota. In this method most commonly used rootstock for sapota is Khirni or Rayan (Manilkara hexandra Roxb.) is most vigorous and productive rootstock as compared to sapota seedling. Mahua (Madhuca latifolia), Star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito) and Mee tree (Bassia  longifolia) are other used rootstock. 

In this method 2-3 year old 'Khirni' or 'Rayan' seedlings raised in pots or polythene bags are used as rootstocks due to their robust root system. These seedlings should be at least one cm in diameter at the time of grafting. This method should preferably be done at the beginning of the rainy season or during spring (March) when sap is actively flowing.

Optimizing Sapota Yields


Materials Needed : Approach grafting 

  • Healthy sapota scion (preferably from the current season's growth)
  • Healthy Khirni (Manilkara hexandra Roxb.) rootstock
  • Sharp grafting knife or budding knife
  • Grafting tape or polythene strips or a string of thread

Procedure of Approach grafting:

1. Selecting Materials:

        Choose a healthy sapota scion with disease-free, mature wood. Select a robust, disease-free, vigorous and more productive Khirni (Manilkara hexandra Roxb.) rootstock.

Precision Agriculture: Optimizing Sapota Yields with Expertise in Approach Grafting Techniques for Indian Farmers


2. Preparing Scion and Rootstock:

              A one year old pencil thickness branch (scion) is selected for grafting after which the root stock grown in a polythene bag is brought close to the scion branch. The cambium layers on one side of the plant at a distance of 15-20 cm from the base of the root stock are exposed by cutting 5-6 cm long and half cm wide with a sharp knife or grafting knife. Cut the sapota stem into 6-8 inch lengths, making sure it has at least one bud. Make a sloping cut at the base of the scion and a matching cut at the rootstock. The cuts should be clean and fit together well. Position the slanted cut of the stem against the matching cut on the rootstock, making sure. Tie the scions to the rootstock using grafting tape or rubber bands or a string of thread. The goal is to maintain close contact between scion and rootstock.

Precision Agriculture: Optimizing Sapota Yields with Expertise in Approach Grafting Techniques for Indian Farmers


3. Encouraging Union:

          The graft should not be separated for four to five months, so that the scion and rootstock can naturally come into contact and form a successful union.

Precision Agriculture: Optimizing Sapota Yields with Expertise in Approach Grafting Techniques for Indian Farmers


4. Aftercare:

         Water the grafted plant regularly and provide appropriate care to ensure its healthy growth. Monitor the grafted plant for signs of stress, disease, or any issues with the graft union.

5. Post-Grafting Maintenance:

           Remove any shoots or growth below the graft union that may divert nutrients away from the scion.

6. Monitoring and Patience:

   Regularly monitor the grafted sapota for signs of successful grafting, such as new growth from the scion. Remember that success in approach grafting depends on factors like the health of the plants, proper timing, and care during the process.