ABSTRACT
An important aspect of grafting is positioning rootstock and scion cuts relative to each other and the root collar or soil surface. Graft placement above root collar or soil level is a matter of choice or, for commercial growers, specifications laid down by industry standards. The majority of species are grafted close to soil level, often 25–60mm above, when the graft is known as ‘bottom-worked’. A minority of species are grafted as low as possible, at or below the hypocotyl, the objective being to subsequently plant the graft union beneath the soil to encourage scion rooting. A stimulant bud can also, with advantage, be in close proximity to the small flap at the base of the short tongue veneer graft rootstock. Training is essential and best given on a person-to-person basis, with opportunities for frequent follow-up checks and advice. Many would argue that splice grafts can be produced more quickly and rates of 100–150 grafts per hour are frequent.
