An Improved Technique for Making Wedge Grafts in Soybean Plants1

Abstract

AbstractThe design and use of a grafting block for making uniform and reproducible wedge grafts in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) plants is presented. The grafting block was prepared from plexiglass measuring 14 ✕ 10 ✕ 1.2 cm. A slot to hold the scion was cut at a 2.5‐degree angle to the face of the block. The slot measured 4 cm in length, 0.3 cm in width, and varied in depth from 0.15 cm at the edge of the block to 0.0 cm at its termination point. The slot enabled a precise positioning of the scion for making the wedge cut. The block was used to successfully produce grafted plants which vary in the number of scions and roots. Six wedge grafts with different top:root ratios are described. The grafting block reduced the time required to make a graft and it gave an increase in the survival percentage of grafts. The uniformity of the wedge graft facilitated the interfacing of the scion‐root stock tissues, resulting in a more rapid recovery and uniform growth of the plant.