Top-working of Pecan Trees

Abstract

This research was conducted to determine the most appropriate grafting method for pecan trees in Dezful between 2019- 2022. Two experiments were carried out based on a completely randomized design in the form of a split-plot in three replications with grafting time at eight levels (from the second week of March to the first week of May) and three scion cultivars: ‘GraKing’. ‘Wichita’ and ‘Choctaw’. In the first experiment, fresh scions were used, and in the second experiment, the scions were prepared and kept at 4oC for one month. The results of the first experiment showed that the grafting success in the first week of March was significantly higher than other dates at the level of 1%. The grafting was not successful in the second week of March and the first week of May. In the second week of April, ‘Choctaw’ had the highest rate of grafting success with 94%. The effect of grafting date and scion cultivar was significant at the 5% probability level in the growth, and ‘Choctaw’ had the highest height and diameter in the first and second year. In the second experiment, the results showed that the grafting success was significantly highest in the first week of April and the grafting was not successful in the second and third weeks of March. Finally, the middle of April was recommended as the best time for pecan trees top-working in Dezful condition.

Keywords

• cleft grafting
• carya illinoensis
• cultivar change
• rejuvenation