Budding offers several advantages over traditional grafting techniques, most notably resulting in a stronger union between the scion and rootstock.
Here's a breakdown of the advantages:
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Stronger Union: Budding generally creates a more robust and durable union compared to many grafting methods. This reduces the risk of breakage or failure at the graft site over time.
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Suitable for Smaller Shoots: Budding is well-suited for use on plant shoots with diameters ranging from 1/4 to 1 inch. While grafting can sometimes accommodate smaller sizes, budding is typically more efficient and successful in these scenarios. Larger branches can still be budded by inserting buds into vigorously growing twigs near the top of the plant.
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Ease and Success Rate: Budding, in many cases, is considered easier to perform and results in a higher success rate, particularly for certain plant species and when performed by skilled individuals.
In summary, budding's strengths lie in its ability to form a stronger connection, its suitability for smaller plant material, and often, its relative ease and higher success rate compared to grafting.