A horticultural method of plant propagation in which a segment (the * scion) of the plant to be propagated is inserted onto another plant (the * stock) in such a way that their vascular tissues combine, so allowing growth of the grafted segment. The technique, which is mainly used on woody species, relies on the natural regenerative capacities of plants following wounding. In addition to the cambia of scion and stock growing together to form a continuous column, prolific development of callus around the graft area ensures a firm union. Grafting is only successful between closely related species. Thus apples are usually grafted on to different varieties of apple rootstock. Pears however are usually grafted onto quince rootstocks. See also chimaera. |
