Out-of-season grafting method for rejuvenation of ancient sabina chinensis trees
By using off-season grafting in winter and temporary planting in a winter-warm greenhouse for healing, the problems of high propagation difficulty and low survival rate of ancient Chinese juniper trees have been solved, achieving high survival rate and rapid growth, and reducing the need for pests, diseases and artificial support.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511581899.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-06
AI Technical Summary
Ancient trees are difficult to propagate, especially ancient Chinese juniper trees, which have a low survival rate after juvenile propagation. Existing technologies cannot effectively guarantee the survival rate after transplantation, and the effects of treatments such as potassium permanganate are limited. Ordinary support methods are not suitable for the stability requirements of tall ancient trees.
The off-season grafting method involves grafting one-year-old branches of ancient Chinese juniper trees with one-year-old seedlings of Chinese arborvitae in winter. This is combined with temporary planting in a winter-warm greenhouse for healing. After removing the rootstock, the plants are transplanted to avoid pests and improve the survival rate.
It has increased the survival rate of ancient Chinese juniper trees to over 95%, doubled the growth of seedlings, reduced pests and diseases, saved labor and materials, and achieved the rejuvenation and restoration of ancient trees.
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Figure CN121464844A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the field of cypress grafting technology, and in particular relates to a method for off-season grafting of ancient Chinese juniper trees to restore their youth. Background Technology
[0002] Ancient trees, broadly speaking, refer to trees over 100 years old. Ancient and famous trees are important natural resources, serving not only as landscape features carrying historical and cultural significance, but also, because each ancient tree is a unique planting resource, possessing unique genetic resources such as insect resistance and stress resistance genes with high scientific research value. Ancient trees are scarce and difficult to propagate. While planting from seeds can perpetuate the species, it cannot perpetuate the unique genetic characteristics of the ancient tree. Furthermore, due to the low tissue viability of ancient trees, the survival rate of asexual propagation techniques such as tissue culture and cuttings is low, resulting in low rooting rates and long rooting times.
[0003] In existing technologies, the use of reagents such as silver nitrate solution and potassium permanganate to remove endogenous rooting inhibitors results in a rooting rate of up to 33%, but the survival rate after transplantation cannot be guaranteed.
[0004] Existing technology also provides a method for creating antique-style bonsai by grafting thick branches of Platycladus orientalis. Utilizing traditional grafting techniques such as bark grafting and irregular approach grafting, Platycladus orientalis seedlings are grafted onto cut thick branches, allowing them to heal and grow together. After pruning and artistic processing, a rough bonsai shape is created, achieving rapid shaping of the bonsai. The production cycle is approximately 2-3 years, significantly shortening the traditional cycle of over ten or even decades, greatly improving the efficiency of bonsai production. During this process, a pneumatic nail gun is used to fix the branch segment to the lower pith as a support to ensure its stability. However, for non-bonsai ancient Juniperus chinensis trees that can reach a height of 20 meters, ordinary supports cannot guarantee sufficient stability, making the existing method unsuitable. Summary of the Invention
[0005] To overcome the difficulties in propagating and rejuvenating ancient trees in existing technologies, this invention provides a method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees, comprising the following steps: Grafting: From late November to late January, one-year-old branches of ancient Chinese juniper trees are used as scions, and one-year-old Chinese arborvitae seedlings are used as rootstocks. The grafting method is called cleft grafting. The scion is inserted into the cut of the rootstock, the cambium layers are aligned and tied tightly to perform grafting. Transplant healing: Transplanting and healing in a winter-warm greenhouse; Rootstock removal: In mid-to-late March, remove the rootstock at the junction of the rootstock and scion; Transplanting: Transplant in early to mid-May, in the afternoon or on a cloudy day, to cultivate large seedlings; water immediately after planting; Remove the binding plastic: Remove the grafting film in mid-to-late August and transfer to normal culture and management.
[0006] The regrowth process of Northern Juniperus chinensis is carried out from late November to late January, when the ambient temperature is between -15℃ and 15℃. After healing in a winter-warm greenhouse for 2-4 months, the rootstock is pruned in mid-to-late March, providing sufficient time for grafting of the scion and avoiding pest infestation, resulting in better scion growth and improved survival rate. During mid-to-late March, the ambient temperature is between -5℃ and 15℃, which is conducive to scion survival. Transplanting is then carried out in early to mid-May to promote rapid growth of the seedlings, allowing them to be bound with plastic by mid-to-late August to ensure their survival.
[0007] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the ancient juniper tree is one that is over 100 years old, more specifically over 300 years old, and even more specifically over 500 years old.
[0008] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the one-year-old branches of the ancient juniper tree are selected with a diameter of 0.1-0.5 mm.
[0009] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the one-year-old Platycladus orientalis seedlings are selected with a diameter of 0.2-0.5 mm.
[0010] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the grafting steps are as follows: from late November to late January, the rootstock is treated at the base of the rootstock with a slanted cut angle of 80-85° and a slanted cut length of 1-1.5cm; the scion is treated with a total length of 10-15cm and a diameter of 0.1-0.5mm, with a double-sided slanted cut that is smooth and the cut surface is 1-1.5cm long; the scion is inserted into the rootstock cut, the cambium layers are aligned, and the grafting film is used to bind it tightly.
[0011] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the transplanting and healing step is as follows: transplanting and healing in a winter-warm greenhouse; making beds, 5±0.5m long and 1±0.2m wide; planting grafted seedlings in the beds, with a row spacing of 15-20cm and a plant spacing of 1±0.2cm, covering the roots with fine sand, and watering thoroughly; covering each bed with a small arched shed, with the ridge height of the shed 50±5cm, and covering it with plastic sheeting; In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the temperature and humidity control during the transplant healing period is as follows: nighttime temperature above 5°C, daytime temperature above 10°C; air humidity above 85%; soil humidity 70±5%.
[0012] During the pruning of rootstock, there is no need to remove sprouts, which saves labor and improves the survival rate.
[0013] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the transplanting process is as follows: transplanting is carried out in early to mid-May, in the afternoon or on a cloudy day, with a row spacing of 60±5cm and a plant spacing of 50±5cm, to cultivate large seedlings. Watering is carried out immediately after planting.
[0014] The grafting method provided by this invention has the following characteristics: This invention provides a method for off-season grafting. Conventional grafting methods often involve grafting in spring to increase the survival rate, while this application uses early winter to winter grafting, allowing for a longer grafting time for the scion and rootstock, resulting in greater seedling growth. In some embodiments of this invention, the seedlings are more than twice the height of those grafted in spring; at the same time, the lower ambient temperature during the growth period reduces pest and disease damage.
[0015] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. This invention provides a method for off-season grafting of ancient Chinese juniper trees. From late November to late January, one-year-old branches of ancient Chinese juniper trees are used as scions, and one-year-old arborvitae seedlings are used as rootstocks. The grafting is performed by inserting the scion into the cut of the rootstock. The trees are then temporarily planted and healed in a winter-warm greenhouse. This invention improves the grafting survival rate of ancient Chinese juniper trees by off-season grafting and by optimizing the selection of scions and rootstocks. The binding plastic is removed in mid-to-late August, and the trees can survive within one month, with a survival rate of over 95%. 2. Because this invention involves grafting in winter, compared to grafting in spring, the seedling growth period is extended and the growth rate is doubled; at the same time, there are no obvious pests or diseases. 3. The method of the present invention adopts the cleft grafting method, and at the same time eliminates the need for sprout removal, which saves labor and improves the survival rate of seedlings; 4. The method of the present invention grafts at the base of the rootstock, eliminating the risk of wind breakage and eliminating the need for upright support poles, thus achieving rejuvenation restoration of ancient trees and saving materials and labor. Attached Figure Description
[0016] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.
[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of cleft grafting; where (a) is the scion, (b) is the incision on the rootstock, (c) is the graft union, and (d) is the binding.
[0018] Figure 2 This is a transplantation diagram. Detailed Implementation
[0019] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are exemplary and intended to provide further illustration of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.
[0020] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.
[0021] In this invention, the first and middle ten days of the month refer to the period from the 1st to the 15th of each month, the middle and late ten days refer to the period from the 15th to the 30th of each month, and the last ten days refer to the period from the 20th to the 30th of each month.
[0022] Example 1, (1) Grafting: Grafting is carried out in late November within Shandong Province. The juniper trees are 500 years old. The rootstock is treated at the base of the rootstock with an oblique cut angle of 80° and a length of 1cm. The scion is treated with a total length of 10cm and a diameter of 0.1mm. It is cut obliquely on both sides, smooth, and the cut surface is 1cm long. The scion is inserted into the rootstock cut, the cambium layers are aligned, and it is bound tightly with grafting film.
[0023] (2) Temporary planting and healing: Temporary planting and healing in a winter-warm greenhouse; make beds, 5m long and 1m wide; plant grafted seedlings in the beds, with a row spacing of 15cm and a plant spacing of 1cm, cover the roots with powdery sand and water thoroughly; cover each bed with a small arched shed, 50cm high, and cover with plastic sheeting.
[0024] (3) Temperature and humidity control during the healing period of transplanted plants: nighttime temperature above 5℃, daytime temperature above 10℃; air humidity above 85%; soil humidity about 70%.
[0025] (4) Remove the rootstock: In mid-March, remove the rootstock at the junction of the rootstock and scion; it is not necessary to remove the sprouts.
[0026] (5) Transplanting: Transplant in the afternoon of early May, with a row spacing of 60cm and a plant spacing of 50cm, to cultivate large seedlings. Water immediately after planting.
[0027] (6) Remove the plastic binding in mid-August and transfer to normal culture management.
[0028] Example 2 (1) Grafting: Grafting is carried out in late January within Shandong Province. The juniper trees are 550 years old. The rootstock is treated at the base of the rootstock with an oblique cut angle of 85° and a length of 1.5cm. The scion is treated with a total length of 15cm and a diameter of 0.5mm. It is obliquely cut on both sides, smooth, and the cut surface is 1.5cm long. The scion is inserted into the rootstock cut, the cambium layers are aligned, and the grafting film is used to bind it tightly.
[0029] (2) Temporary planting and healing: Temporary planting and healing in a winter-warm greenhouse; make beds, 5m long and 1m wide; plant grafted seedlings in the beds, with a row spacing of 15cm and a plant spacing of 1cm, cover the roots with powdery sand and water thoroughly; cover each bed with a small arched shed, 50cm high, and cover with plastic sheeting.
[0030] (3) Temperature and humidity control during the healing period of transplanted plants: nighttime temperature above 5℃, daytime temperature above 10℃; air humidity above 85%; soil humidity about 70%.
[0031] (4) Remove the rootstock: In late March, remove the rootstock at the junction of the rootstock and scion; it is not necessary to remove the sprouts.
[0032] (5) Transplanting: Transplant in mid-May in the afternoon, with a row spacing of 60cm and a plant spacing of 50cm, to cultivate large seedlings. Water immediately after planting.
[0033] (6) Remove the plastic binding in mid-August and transfer to normal culture management.
[0034] Example 3 Ninety juniper trees aged 200-300 years were grafted back to their juvenile state, and the treatment method was the same as in Example 1.
[0035] Example 4 The grafting method is the same as in Example 1, except that during the pruning of the rootstock, the sprouts are removed.
[0036] Example 5 Grafting was performed in March, and other treatments were the same as in Example 1.
[0037] The methods in Examples 1-3 were followed respectively, and the survival rate and health of the ancient trees were evaluated.
[0038] The disease incidence rate was calculated as a percentage based on survey statistics.
[0039] The survey of pests and diseases in ancient trees involved counting the number of fresh frass holes in the trunk of each tree and calculating the percentage of trees affected. The calculation method was as follows: Disease incidence (%) = Number of diseased plants / Total number of plants surveyed × 100%.
[0040] The pest status of ancient trees can reflect their health to some extent. In their early stages, due to internal and external factors, ancient trees become weakened and susceptible to pest infestations, with trunk borers being the main threat. Bark beetles, longhorn beetles, and jewel beetles, among other trunk borers, gnaw on the bark or burrow into the trunk, affecting the upward transport of water and inorganic salts and the downward transport of assimilates. This leads to an imbalance in nutrient supply between the above-ground and underground parts, and in severe cases, can cause the tree to die.
[0041]
[0042] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A method for off-season grafting of ancient Chinese juniper trees to revive their young, characterized in that... Includes the following steps: Grafting: From late November to late January, the scion is inserted into the cut of the rootstock, the cambium layers are aligned and the graft is tied tightly to perform the grafting. Transplant healing: Transplanting and healing in a winter-warm greenhouse; Rootstock removal: In mid-to-late March, remove the rootstock at the junction of the rootstock and scion; Transplanting: Transplant in early to mid-May to cultivate large seedlings; water immediately after planting; Remove the binding plastic: Remove the grafting film in mid-to-late August and transfer to normal culture and management.
2. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to juvenile growth according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ancient juniper trees mentioned are those over 100 years old, and further those over 300 years old.
3. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to juvenile growth according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the grafting process, one-year-old branches of ancient Chinese juniper trees are used as scions, and one-year-old Chinese arborvitae seedlings are used as rootstocks.
4. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to juvenile growth according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the grafting process, one-year-old branches of the ancient juniper tree with a diameter of 0.1-0.5 mm are selected.
5. The method for off-season grafting of ancient Chinese juniper trees to restore their youth, as described in claim 3, is characterized in that... In the grafting process, the one-year-old Platycladus orientalis seedlings with a diameter of 0.2-0.5 mm are selected.
6. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to juvenile growth according to claim 1, characterized in that, The grafting steps are as follows: Rootstock treatment: cut at the base of the rootstock at an angle of 80-85°, with a cut length of 1-1.5cm; Scion treatment: total length 10-15cm, diameter 0.1-0.5mm, double-sided oblique cut, smooth, cut surface length 1-1.5cm.
7. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to juvenile form according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the grafting process: the treated scion is inserted into the incision of the treated rootstock, the cambium layers are aligned, and the grafting film is used to bind it tightly.
8. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to restore their youth, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... The steps for transplanting and healing are as follows: transplant and heal in a winter-warm greenhouse; make beds; plant grafted seedlings in the beds, cover the roots with fine sand, and water thoroughly; cover each bed with a small arched shed, and then cover the outside with plastic sheeting.
9. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to juvenile form according to claim 1, characterized in that, Temperature and humidity control during the transplanting healing period: nighttime temperature above 5℃, daytime temperature above 10℃; air humidity above 85%; soil moisture approximately 70±5%.
10. The method for off-season grafting of ancient juniper trees to restore their youth, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... The transplanting process is as follows: transplant in the early to mid-May, in the afternoon or on a cloudy day, to cultivate large seedlings; water immediately after planting.