Tree graft union question

[Philthy]

My KOR apple tree on MM106 was supplied by Keeper's.

Since planting it (on a slight mound and therefore the base is more obvious), I've noticed that while the graft union itself is smooth, neat, and healthy looking, the scion juts out at about 45 degrees from the join, gradually curving around and becoming straight from about 2' above the union.
Is this a weak point? I'm wondering whether as the tree gets bigger (and heavier), it could ever split or sheer off completely at this juncture.

I understand the theory of grafting. But I have zero practical experience. Am I being over cautious here?

(Overall I'm very pleased with the quality of the supplied tree. I've only heard positive things about Keeper's, and I'm happy to chuck my two pence worth in).

[Kristen]

Sounds like that is just the side-effect of the graft being on the "side" of the original plant - but I am presuming that the stem is still quite skinny?

If that's the case then I think as it grows that offset-and-curve will grow to become something resembling "vertically straight" - if that makes sense?

[Philthy]

Hi Kristen,

The stem where it joins is almost 2" thick.

If a distinct curve were to remain, do you think it could become an issue?

[Kristen]

Seems surprisingly thick for a young tree. I'd be interested to hear what others have to say, but I wonder if it failed the graft first year and this is a re-do on a later / older plant.

Although: how big is the plant, overall? Maybe its a "more mature" specimen?

I'll have a close up look at my Apples tomorrow and see how obvious/pronounced the graft looks.

[boundtothesoil]

Forty-five degrees sounds a bit excessive to me, as does a 2 inch diameter rootstock at the union. My MM106 root stocks would take five years to attain that diameter. Do keeper's produce their varieties by grafting or budding? That said, you'd be very unlucky for the scion to shear off. I tie my recently grafted trees to a stake/bamboo cane both above and below the union to lessen the likelihood of this happening and, so far, it hasn't.

[fishpond]

Do you have a photograph, if so, can you post it so we know what to avoid?
Seriously, do you have a photograph of the union?

[Philthy]

Seems surprisingly thick for a young tree. I'd be interested to hear what others have to say, but I wonder if it failed the graft first year and this is a re-do on a later / older plant.

Although: how big is the plant, overall? Maybe its a "more mature" specimen?

Hi guys. Okay, I've been out and measured the tree. Actually, the trunk isn't 2" yet, it's closer to 1 1/4". Sorry about that Looked bigger from the house!
Total height is a little over 7'. Tree is a 3 year Half Standard.
The angle of curve is as originally described though.

I'll aim to get a picture up asap....

[Philthy]

Okay, reviving this thread, finally

This should better illustrate the issue:


Is this a normal degree of kink? Will it become an issue as the tree gets bigger and heavier?

It grew really well this year. Probably about 10' high already.

[yummersetter]

If I were you, I'd send these pictures to Keepers and ask them for their opinion . . if they say its fine, then you have a kind-of guarantee.

[FB.]

I don't think it will be a problem. It's a fairly common occurrence.
The type of grafting (bud, whip/tongue, cleft etc) can affect the angle at which the scion grows out, and some scions tend to grow out at wider angles than others.

[Philthy]

I'll send the pictures to Keepers. See if they have anything to add.

Thanks

[simon12]

1 of my cherries also from keepers looks very similar so I hope its not a problem.