
Orange tree propagation can be carried out by cutting branch and root sections in feasible sources and bonding them together. The rootstock on an orange tree is grafted onto a desired branch to increase disease resistance for a wholesome tree. Cutting a branch and propagating it without grafting is possible, but you may not be satisfied with the health and fruit production of the resulting tree due to the lack of a hardy rootstock.
Softwood Cutting
Propagate an orange tree by cutting a 6- to 12-inch section of branch during the period from late spring to early summer. This is referred to as a softwood cutting; it’s best to take a new branch when it’s starting to harden. A softwood branch snaps easily when bent in half. The cutting should include no less than two growth nodes, which also are known as bud factors.
Rootstock Cutting
A rootstock cutting is needed for the grafting propagation procedure. Cut a section of rootstock which has a diameter of approximately 3/8 inch; the diameter has to be less than 1/2 inch. A tree than 1 year old is the best choice for a rootstock used in grafting. Dig around the main system to expose the young roots and stem. Cut and remove a section of root and stem with a clean, sharp knife. The department has to be a minimum of 6 inches long to create a T-budding.
T-Budding Propagation
T-budding is a propagation method used for fruit trees, including trees that are orange. The method involves creating a T-shaped cut at the very top end of the rootstock stem to create about a 1-inch opening for the branch cutting. Cut the sides off the bottom end of the branch stem so the branch fits within the cut the rootstock. At least two bud points must be on the upper portion of the branch stem once you fit the stem to the rootstock. Wrap a rubber strip around the graft stage to hold the stem and rootstock in position and also to prevent the cut timber from drying out since the pieces grow and bond. Covering the rubber budding strip and also bonded area with propagation wax protects the region.
Care and Maintenance
The project’s next stage is planting the propagated branch and rootstock section in a container filled with sterile potting soil. The bonded point should be set 1 to 2 inches above soil level. Plant the branch immediately after bonding to limit moisture loss. The cutting should be allowed to grow in a protected region which receives filtered sunlight. Keep its soil evenly moist but not saturated, which might cause root rot. If you can not plant the propagated branch and rootstock section instantly, then wrap it in paper towel and store it in a plastic bag in a refrigerator until you are ready to plant.