THE LEAFLET

Last week, we successfully held our very first Apple Grafting Workshop! Lead by Casey Trees Field Manager Nick Smalley, this exciting new workshop taught the basics of fruit tree grafting while providing participants proper grafting techniques and starter tree care tips.

Apple grafting is a horticultural technique used to propagate apple trees. It involves attaching a cutting or scion from one apple tree onto the rootstock of another tree to create a new, genetically identical tree. This technique allows for the propagation of specific apple varieties that may not grow well from seeds. It’s important to choose compatible varieties, follow proper techniques, and practice patience as you wait for the graft to heal and grow.

Eight varieties of Apple scions.

After a quick safety demo, Nick provided a demonstration of two different grafting cuts, the cleft graft and the whip-and-tongue. Sure enough, our amazing participants were able to pick up the tools and start grafting their own trees right away!

With over 100 rootstocks and scions, volunteers and Casey Trees staff alike worked to create many variations of baby apple trees. Participants were even able to bring the new tree home with them! Casey Trees will continue to monitor the progress and take care of the extra trees as they grow to provide delicious apples.

Scroll down to enjoy some more pictures of the day!

Young apple trees to be monitored by Casey Trees.