Bitumen graft wound sealer & protector.
tree seal grafting grade is a water based bitumen emulsion mixed with clay, consisting of cellulose fibres, a thickening agent and a preservative.
Uses
The regrafting of deciduous fruit trees in an orchard is carried out for various reasons including:
- when uneconomic cross-pollinators must be replaced in an existing conventionally trained orchard.
- to supplement inadequate cross-pollination in an orchard by converting a number of trees in accordance with need, either in full or in part to the cultivars required.
- to convert an existing sound orchard that has been established on a high density pattern, to some other cultivar that is more economic.
- to convert an existing sound conventional orchard to a more economic cultivar when considerable replant problems may be encountered if the land is replanted.
Advantages
- tree seal grafting grade is scientifically formulated especially for the protection, covering and sealing of exposed tissue of graft unions and wounds.
- Forms a tough flexible highly waterproof seal.
- Creates suitable environment for callusing.
- It is durable, easy to use and fast drying and is not affected by rain if dry.
- It has an ideal viscosity, is non-phytotoxic and prevents desiccation.
Colour
Typical Physical Properties
*It also qualifies as a very efficient short-term wound protectant as well, giving good protection for one season under normal conditions.
Surface Preparation
Make a fairly long, slanting, straight slit in the base of the lateral branches or shoot as close to the scaffolding as possible. Select a scion corresponding in thickness with the lateral twig or shoot to be worked over, match and cut its base into a wedge shape corresponding with the slit on the tree, bend the twig or shoot down carefully to open the slit, slip in the scion so that at least one side’s cambium layers will make contact with each other and release the shoot or twig to clamp the scion into place. Cut off the shoot or twig as close as possible behind the graft union. Cover all wounds immediately with tree seal grafting grade. Make sure that the scion is placed as close as possible to the scaffold branch or lateral branch to prevent retention of unnecessary old wood that will have to be suckered. If there are no lateral twigs or shoots available on the scaffold branches or lateral branches where a graft is required, side grafting can be done directly on the scaffold branch or lateral branch.
A slanting slit is made in the branch into the wood and a scion cut into an uneven wedge-shape is inserted and thoroughly covered with tree seal grafting grade.
The dexterity with which the grafting is done, depends mainly on the type of knife and how sharp it is. Regrafting cannot be done with a blunt knife and care should be taken to have a good hone available. Any thin-bladed knife with a comfortable handle may be used.
The best time for grafting is as soon as buds on the tree show signs of bud movement. Use only scions with dormant buds. This is possible by storing them in a plastic bag under refrigeration. For pruning wounds, use abe® tree seal pruning grade.
Bonding / Priming
No bonding or priming of the surface is necessary.
Mixing
tree seal grafting grade is packed ready for use and should not be thinned. Stir well before use.
Coverage
Use as required.
Application
tree seal grafting grade is applied liberally by brush, trowel or gloved hand ensuring the entire surface area is completely covered and thoroughly sealed.
Cleaning
Tools, brushes and mixing equipment should be cleaned immediately after use and before material has set with abe® super brush cleaner followed by washing with soap and water.
Protection on Completion
No further protection is required.
Packaging
tree seal grafting grade is supplied in 5 kg and 20 kg containers.
Handling & Storage
This product has a shelf life of 12 months if kept in a dry cool place in the original packaging. In more extreme conditions this period might be shortened.
Caution
For pruning wounds, use abe® tree seal pruning grade.
Graft at the correct time of the year.