Grafting is an age-old technique that combines the qualities of different vine varieties to produce more resistant and productive plants. Whether you’re an experienced winegrower or a passionate amateur, mastering the art of grafting will help you improve the quality of your vines and preserve your vineyard. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods of grafting, the best times to do it, and some practical tips for successful grafting.
Why graft vines?
Grafting vines became common practice following the invasion of phylloxera in the 19th century. This small insect pest decimated much of Europe’s vineyards, prompting winegrowers to adopt grafting techniques to save their vines. Today, grafting makes it possible to :
- Combining the resistance of American rootstocks with the quality of European grape varieties
- Adapting vines to different soils and climates
- Renew aging vines without having to uproot them
- Change grape varieties quickly to adapt to market demands
The main grafting techniques
There are several grafting methods, each adapted to specific situations. Here are the three most commonly used techniques:
1. Slot grafting
This method is particularly suitable for grafting existing vines. It is generally carried out in late winter or early spring, before budburst.
Stages of cleft grafting :
- Cut the rootstock a few centimetres above the ground
- Split the rootstock vertically for about 5 cm.
- Prune the graft into a V shape
- Insert the scion into the slot in the rootstock
- Ligate the graft and protect it with putty
2. English-style grafting
This technique is often used to produce graft-welded plants in nurseries. It ensures excellent healing and a good recovery rate.
Stages of English-style grafting :
- Bevel the rootstock and scion to a length of about 3 cm.
- Create a tab on each part
- Assemble the two parts by aligning the tabs.
- Ligating the graft and protecting it with kerosene
3. Chip-budding grafting
This method is particularly suitable for grafting young vines. It is generally used at flowering time, when the bark can be easily removed.
Stages of crest grafting :
- Remove a bud (eye) from the graft
- Make a T-shaped incision on the rootstock
- Insert the bud under the bark
- Ligate the graft, leaving the bud exposed
When should vines be grafted?
The choice of grafting period depends on the technique used and the climatic conditions in your region. Here is a general guide:
- Slot grafting: late February to early April
- English-style grafting: February to March
- Bud grafting: May to June (flowering period)
It is important to take local weather conditions into account and avoid periods of late frost, which could compromise the success of your grafts.
Tips for successful grafting
For successful vine grafting, it’s essential to follow a few key tips. First, choose your rootstock wisely, based on your soil type and its resistance to local diseases. This careful selection will ensure a solid foundation for your new vine. Next, make sure you use healthy planting material, both for grafts and rootstocks. The absence of disease and parasites is crucial to the success of your graft.
Mastery of technique is also essential. Before you set to work on your precious vines, practice on waste shoots. This will enable you to refine your gestures and gain the necessary confidence. Hygiene also plays an important role in the grafting process. Take care to disinfect your tools between each graft to avoid the spread of potential diseases.
Once the graft has been made, protection is essential. Use mastic or kerosene to protect your grafts from the elements and from drying out. These protective barriers will promote optimal healing. Finally, don’t forget that the work doesn’t stop with the graft itself. Regular monitoring of the progress of your grafts is essential. Pay particular attention to any rejections of the rootstock that could compete with the graft, and remove them promptly to ensure the harmonious development of your new vine.
Grafting: an alternative to replanting
Grafting is a technique that makes it possible to change grape varieties on existing vines, without having to uproot and replant. This method offers several advantages:
- Saves time: production can resume as early as the second year
- Cost savings: less expensive than complete replanting
- Preservation of the existing root system
Grafting can be carried out using split grafting or chip-budding techniques, depending on the age and condition of the vines to be grafted.
FAQ about grafting vines
When is the best time to graft vines?
The ideal time depends on the technique used, but generally between February and June, avoiding periods of frost.
How to graft a vine?
There are several methods, including split, English and escutcheon grafting. Choose the technique best suited to your situation and follow the steps detailed in this article.
When to do English-style grafting?
English-style grafting is generally carried out in February-March, before the vines bud.
How to graft a vine?
To graft an existing vine, the split or chip-budding technique is often used. Follow the steps described in the corresponding section of this article.
Vine grafting in a nutshell
Vine grafting is an essential technique for any winegrower wishing to improve the quality and resistance of his vineyard. Although it requires practice and patience, this method offers many advantages and great flexibility in grape variety management. By following the advice and techniques presented in this article, you’ll be able to carry out your own grafting successfully.
Don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Don’t hesitate to get training from professionals or attend grafting workshops to perfect your skills. With time and experience, you’ll master this ancient art and be able to take full advantage of the benefits of grafting in your vineyard.
