ESSENTIALS OF BUDDING

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Budding is a common method of asexual reproduction used in citrus plants, which allows growers to propagate desirable cultivars with identical traits. It is widely practiced in citrus cultivation and is a relatively simple and effective technique. Here is a detailed account of budding in citrus plants:

1. Selection of Rootstock: The first step in the budding process is to select a suitable rootstock. Rootstocks are chosen based on their specific characteristics, such as disease resistance, vigor, and adaptability to different soil types. Common rootstock varieties used in citrus budding include Trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata), Cleopatra mandarin (Citrus reshni), and Swingle citrumelo (Citrus paradisi x Poncirus trifoliata).
2. Selection of Scion: The scion is the desired citrus variety that will be grafted onto the rootstock. It is selected based on its desirable fruit characteristics such as flavor, size, and color. The scion should also be compatible with the chosen rootstock.
3. Timing: Budding is usually performed during the active growing season, which varies depending on the citrus species and location. In general, it is best to perform budding when the bark of the rootstock is easily separated from the cambium layer.
4. Preparation: Before budding, the rootstock is pruned to a suitable height, usually around 10-15 cm above the ground. The selected scion is prepared by collecting budwood from healthy, disease-free trees. Budwood consists of actively growing shoots with dormant buds.
5. Bud Shield Preparation: A bud shield is a small section of the scion containing a bud. It is typically about 2-3 cm in length and includes a bud, a small portion of bark, and a sliver of wood. The bud shield is carefully removed from the budwood using a sharp knife, ensuring that it includes a healthy, plump bud.
6. T-Budding Technique: T-budding is the most common method used for budding citrus plants. It involves making a T-shaped incision in the bark of the rootstock. The vertical cut is made first, followed by a horizontal cut at the top to create a T shape. The incision should penetrate the bark but not the wood.
7. Insertion of Bud Shield: After creating the T-shaped incision, the bud shield is inserted beneath the bark of the rootstock. Care must be taken to ensure that the bud shield fits snugly and is aligned with the cambium layer.
8. Binding and Protection: Once the bud shield is inserted, it is secured in place using a grafting tape or rubber band. The binding material should be firm enough to hold the bud shield securely but not so tight that it damages the delicate bud. Additionally, the bud itself should remain exposed above the binding material.
9. Healing and Growth: After budding, the grafted area is protected from direct sunlight by covering it with a grafting compound or grafting wax. This helps to prevent drying out and aids in the healing process. Over time, the bud will integrate with the rootstock and begin to grow, utilizing the rootstock’s root system for nutrients and water.
10. Aftercare: Once budding is successful, it is important to provide proper care to the newly grafted plant. This includes regular watering, protection from extreme weather conditions, and monitoring for any signs of disease or pests.

In conclusion, budding is a widely used method for propagating citrus plants. It involves grafting a desired scion onto a compatible rootstock, allowing growers to reproduce desirable citrus varieties with consistent traits. By following the steps mentioned above and providing proper care, growers can successfully propagate citrus plants through budding and continue to cultivate a diverse range of citrus cultivars.