How To Graft Adenium Obesum

Grafting adenium obesum, commonly known as desert rose, is a popular method used by gardeners and plant enthusiasts to create hybrid varieties and to propagate plants. Here are the steps to graft adenium obesum:

Select the scion: Choose a healthy stem or branch of the adenium obesum that you want to propagate. The scion should be at least 3-4 inches long and have a diameter of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Choose the rootstock: Select a healthy rootstock that has a similar diameter to the scion. Prepare the scion:

Using a sharp knife or razor blade, make a sloping cut on the bottom of the scion. The cut should be at a 45-degree angle and should be about 1 inch long. Prepare the rootstock: Make a vertical cut on the rootstock, about 1/3 of the way up from the bottom, and make a sloping cut at a 45-degree angle. The cut should be about the same length as the scion.

Join the scion and the rootstock: Insert the scion into the cut on the rootstock, making sure that the cambium layers of both the scion and the rootstock match up. Secure the graft: Use grafting tape or grafting clips to hold the scion and the rootstock together. Be sure to wrap the tape or clips tightly around the graft, but not so tight as to damage the plant.

Cover the graft: Cover the graft with a plastic bag or a clear plastic dome to create a humid environment for the newly grafted plant. Care for the grafted plant: Keep the grafted plant in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Water the plant sparingly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. After a few weeks, the scion and rootstock should have fused together,

and you can remove the covering. Grafting adenium obesum can be a bit challenging, so it's important to be patient and careful during the process. Good luck!