"Bark graft" is a horticultural term referring to a technique for propagating trees. The correct spelling of this term is /bɑːrk ɡrɑːft/ with the emphasis on the first syllable of both words. The word "bark" is spelled with the letter "a" before the letter "r" in order to indicate a long vowel sound. Meanwhile, the word "graft" is spelled as it sounds, with a short vowel sound followed by the letter "f" and the silent letter "t". Mastering this spelling can help gardeners become more proficient in their techniques.
Bark graft is a horticultural technique or method used for plant propagation, specifically for trees or woody plants. It involves the joining or grafting of two plant tissues - the bark and cambium - in order to grow a new plant or to repair or rejuvenate an existing one.
In a bark graft, a small twig or a scion, often taken from the desired plant or cultivar, is chosen and its bark is carefully removed, leaving behind the cambium layer. The cambium is a thin layer of actively dividing cells located just beneath the bark, responsible for the growth and development of new tissues. The host plant, known as the stock, is prepared by making a matching incision or cut into its bark. The cambium of both the scion and stock must align precisely to ensure a successful graft.
Once the cambium layer of the scion and stock are well-aligned, they are bound together using grafting tape, grafting wax, or a similar material to provide support and prevent air and water from entering the graft union. Over time, the scion and stock tissues fuse together to form a solid and unified connection. As the graft union heals and new growth appears, the scion begins to grow and develop, gaining the characteristics and traits of the chosen scion.
Bark grafting is commonly used to propagate fruit trees, nut trees, and ornamental trees, as it allows for precise control over the characteristics of the resulting plants. It is also used for repairing injured or damaged trees, allowing them to recover and continue growing.
The word "bark graft" consists of two parts: "bark" and "graft".
1. Bark:
The word "bark" can be traced back to the Old Norse word "bǫrkr", which referred to the protective outer covering of a tree (the bark). This word later evolved into "barke" in Middle English and eventually became "bark" in modern English. The term "bark" is now commonly used to denote the tough, outermost layer of a tree's trunk.
2. Graft:
The word "graft" has roots in the Old English word "græft" or "græfte", which meant "grafting, digging". Its origin can be further traced back to the Old Norse word "grǫpt" and the Proto-Germanic word "*grapiz", both referring to digging or hoeing.