PROPAGATION 



411 



be trimmed with a sharp knife to a wedge about 1 or 1.] inches 

 long, with the outer edge of the wedge thicker than the other. 

 It is very important that the sides of this wedge be cut perfectly 

 even, and since the union of the scion and stock takes place at 

 the cambium layer or inner bark, it is also important that the 

 inner bark of the scion come in contact with the inner bark of 

 the stock. Hence the scion is left a little thicker on the outside 

 edge to insure a pressure of the stock against the scion at this 



Fig. 180. Cleft-graftinj 



point. Frequently the scion is tipped slightly outward to bring 

 the cambium layers into contact at one point at least. In prepar- 

 ing the scion it is also advisable to trim it in such a manner as 

 to have a bud just above the wedge on the thicker side, so that 

 when it is placed in the stock it will appear just above the cleft 

 on the outside. After the scions are trimmed and placed in the 

 stock, the wedged end of the grafting tool may be released from 

 the cleft and the graft waxed. 



If both the grafts grow, the weaker one should be cut out the 

 following spring to prevent the formation of a crotch, and the stub, 

 if not entirely healed, may be again covered with wax. 



