ABSTRACT
Pressure on the graft interface, and consequently on any developing tissue in between, may be achieved in various ways, usually by tying together, but alternatives such as pegs or pins can be considered. Rubber has several advantages in use; its elasticity exerts pressure on the graft, it is extremely flexible and is easily tied using a half-hitch, tying-off knot. Some grafters are adamant that tying-in should be done from the bottom up but most would agree that good alignment and prevention of slippage between scion and rootstock is best achieved by wrapping from top downwards. Non-adhesive ties require tying-off to fix them to the graft. Tying-off using the half-hitch knot is rather more difficult than for non-enclosing ties, and combined with the need for some sealing, causes many grafters to prefer the use of rubber tying strips combined with use of a sealant.
