The purpose of grafting is for controlled consolidation and pollination of specimens. This allows the genetics of LSAs to be replicated in home or group orchards for easier maintenance, pollination and controlled crossing.
There are many grafting techniques, but we have mainly utilized the epicotyl method. A sprouted seed’s main shoot is clipped off just above the nut. The stem is split lengthwise, creating a slot for the scion to be matched. The scion is shaved down, slid into the slot, matching the cambium layers (vascular tissues).
The wound is wrapped tightly with parafilm (grafting tape), which maintains contact between the tissue and also reduces water loss. The seedling is placed in a plastic bag, where the roots provide energy and nutrients for the scion to mate and grow. If all goes well a new set of leaves emerge and the above ground portion of the plant is an exact clone as the tree the scion was collected from. The seedling is nurtured in the bag, with high humidity over several weeks, before hardening off and transferred to a pot or bed.
Video of grafting technique.
American Chestnuts of Michigan 