CScott

I read that article from Bonsai Today with a great deal of interest. Every attempt at a classic graft had failed miserably, even after a two day class on the subject. I can now report grafting success with a lodgepole pine and an elderica pine, both very limber. For lack of a better term I have been calling it a "stuff" graft, since that is essentially what happens. What worked for me was to drill two adjoining holes 1/2 to 5/8 inch deep, using a bit that is diameter of the stem, then reaming them to an oval shape with a gouge. Scrape the bark to the cambium on the inner and outer edges of the bent graft. Even if the sharpest part of the bend cracks if there is connected bark on the sides it will work. After stuffing the bend into the hole (it should be a tight fit) jam a toothpick or two in any gaps. Cover all the edges with cut paste, wrap in wet sphagnum moss and cover with plastic. The needles are open to the air.

The most amazing part of this method is that you can graft on thin branches with side branching, putting you at least two years ahead in branch formation, and the angle of placement can be whatever you want. I have a JBP that I am planning to graft wtih this method in a week. As long as you can get long thin lanky branches to use it should work.

Now the interesting part. Why not try the same method with roots? Think of the possibilites!

Carmen