Grafting Fruit Trees

Grafting is a relatively simple but powerful way to combine different varieties of fruit into a single tree. With a good knife and some practice, anyone can do it!

In this workshop, you'll learn two key grafting techniques -- the wedge graft and the whip and tongue. Rootstock, scion wood, and the necessary supplies will be provided for practicing the grafts as you learn them.

Instruction from Jason Geise

A dedicated permaculture enthusiast, Jason Geise specializes in fruit tree propagation, preservation, and health. He trained with San Diego’s best, Jim Neitzel, Ben Kotnik, and Tom Del Hotal, successfully grafting over a thousand trees in the last six years. He regularly consults throughout San Diego and has trained individuals and groups on tree care and propagation. Jason is creating an experimental orchard to secure cultivars that grow and taste well in San Diego called Quail Haven Experimental Orchard.

Workshop Notes

If you have a fruit tree with a variety you love and want to share, please collect scions to share with the class. HERE is an instructional video by Ben Kotnik on how to collect scion wood.

Jason will have a variety of rootstocks if you'd like to purchase some to take home and graft on your own. Pricing as follows:

$5 per person for instruction, needed supplies, and an assortment of scion wood.

$5 per apple rootstock – the cultivar is M.111

$6 per prunus rootstock – the cultivar is Myro 29C

Mahaleb (cherry, does sweet and sour) $5 each

GF 8-1 prunus, better suited for nectarine and peach, $6 per rootstock.

And potentially more, depending on his supply.