Eastern Persimmon Grafting Basics: Seedling Rootstock to Named Cultivar

Answer: Grafting Eastern persimmons involves attaching a scion from a named cultivar onto a seedling rootstock, typically when the rootstock is fully leafed out. The process requires careful timing, proper tools, and techniques such as bark grafting or cleft grafting to ensure cambium layers align for successful union.

• Graft when rootstock is fully leafed out, ideally in warm temperatures (70-80°F).
• Use sharp bypass pruning shears to collect dormant scions with 3-4 buds.
• Ensure cambium layers of scion and rootstock align closely for best results.
• Avoid grafting late in the season to prevent cold damage before dormancy.
• Remove shoots below graft union to prevent energy competition.
• Who should NOT graft: those without proper tools or in unsuitable climates.

Eastern persimmon grafting is a valuable technique to clone desirable fruit-producing cultivars onto seedling rootstocks, which may be male or non-fruiting. This method allows growers to propagate named cultivars with known fruit quality, overcoming the variability of seedling trees. Common challenges include timing the graft correctly, ensuring tight cambium contact, and protecting the graft union from drying out or temperature stress.

Many people use bark grafting when the rootstock diameter is larger than the scion, while cleft or whip-and-tongue grafts are preferred when diameters are similar. Warm temperatures are critical for callus formation and graft success. Improper timing or poor technique can lead to graft failure or damage from cold before the grafted scion hardens off.

Preparing Materials

• Collect dormant scion wood in winter with sharp bypass shears, selecting shoots with 3-4 well-spaced buds.
• Store scions in a refrigerator until grafting time.
• Gather grafting supplies: grafting rubber bands, Parafilm tape, sharp knives, and pruning tools.

Timing and Rootstock Preparation

• Wait until rootstock is fully leafed out and growing actively, typically in late spring or early summer.
• Cut rootstock at desired height (around chest height) and prepare bark flap for bark grafting or split for cleft grafting.

Grafting Technique

• Align cambium layers of scion and rootstock carefully for maximum contact.
• Insert scion under bark flap or into cleft, pressing firmly against inner wood.
• Secure graft union tightly with grafting rubber bands to maintain contact.
• Wrap graft union with Parafilm tape to seal moisture and protect from drying.

Post-Grafting Care

• Remove any shoots or leaves below the graft union to reduce energy competition.
• Protect graft from extreme sun or temperature fluctuations using aluminum foil or shade if needed.
• Monitor graft for signs of failure or infection and remove binding materials once graft has healed.

• Do not graft when rootstock or scion is wet or stressed.
• Avoid using dull or anvil-style shears that damage scions.
• Ensure tight, stable contact without gaps between cambium layers.
• Remove grafting tape or rubber bands timely to prevent girdling.
• Do not wait too late in the season to graft, or the scion may not harden off before cold weather.

Grafting Eastern persimmons onto seedling rootstocks can be rewarding, enabling propagation of superior fruit cultivars. Success depends on proper timing, technique, and care. With patience and attention to detail, many growers find grafting a reliable way to improve their persimmon orchards and enjoy consistent fruit quality.

What is the best time to graft Eastern persimmons?

Grafting is best done when the rootstock is fully leafed out and temperatures are warm, typically in late spring or early summer.

Can I graft a female scion onto a male rootstock?

Yes, grafting a female cultivar scion onto a male seedling rootstock is common to clone fruit-producing trees.

What grafting method works best for persimmons?

Bark grafting is preferred when rootstock is larger than scion; cleft or whip-and-tongue grafts work when sizes match.

How do I protect the graft union after grafting?

Use grafting rubber bands and Parafilm tape to secure and seal the graft, and protect from sun and drying.

When should I remove grafting tape or bands?

Remove binding materials once the graft has healed to prevent girdling, usually after several weeks.

Safety note: Use sharp tools carefully to avoid injury. Avoid grafting in unsuitable weather or if materials are damaged.

Sources:

• National Deer Association - Grafting Persimmons
• Interwoven Permaculture - Persimmon Grafting
• Rick Shory - Persimmon Bark Grafting

"Warm temperature for topworking persimmon trees is more important than style of grafting." – Rick Shory, Persimmon Grafting Expert

Studies show bark grafting success rates can exceed 80% with proper timing and technique (Source - National Deer Association).