Resource Book on Horticulture Nursery Management

Grafts tied and Secured with Polythene Strip
Stone Grafting (Epicotyl Grafting): Mango is generally propagated by inarching
and veneer grafting in north India, these methods are time consuming. Stone grafting is
a technique of faster multiplication of mango. This method is simple, economic and
fast. Fresh mango stones are sown in the nursery beds. After germination, 10-15 day
old seedlings with tender stems and coppery leaves are lifted along with the stones. The
roots and stones are dipped into 0.1 per cent Carbendazim solution for 5 minutes after
washing the soil. The seedling stems are headed back leaving 6-8 cm long stem. A 3-
4.5 cm longitudinal cut is made into the middle portion of the cut stem. A wedge shaped
cut starting on both sides is made on the lower part of scion stick. The scion stick
should be 4-5 months old and 10-15 cm long containing plumpy terminal buds.
The scion stick is then inserted in the cleft of the seedlings and tied with polythene strip. The
grafts are planted in polyethylene bags containing potting mixture. The bags are kept in the
shade for protection from heavy rains. When the scion sprouts and the leaves become
green, the grafted plants should be planted in nursery beds. July is the most suitable
month for stone grafting.
Care of Nursery Plants
The nursery beds should be covered with suitable material. The beds should be
irrigated whenever there is danger of frost. The irrigation should be given at 4-5 day
intervals depending upon the soil condition. A light application of Calcium Ammonium
Nitrate or Ammonium sulphate is also recommended to encourage the growth of plants.
The beds/polybags should be kept free from weeds by regular weeding.
<strong>Resource</strong> <strong>Book</strong> on Horticulture Nursery Management : 139