Khirni or rayan, also known botanically as Manilkara hexandra (Roxb.), belongs to the family sapotaceae. In India, Khirni is well-adapted to tropical and subtropical climates. The tree is medium size, evergreen with spreading growth habit.
The fruits of khirni hold significant economic value as ripe,
fresh fruits. They are known for their sweetness and serve as a rich source of
carbohydrates, minerals, proteins, and sugars.
Khirni (Manilkara hexandra Roxb.) is typically propagated from
seeds; however, vegetative methods, such as soft wood grafting, play a
significant role in maintaining and propagating desirable traits.
Selection of Rootstock:
The rootstock with a strong and
extensive root system contributes to the overall stability of the khirni tree. About
10 to 12 month old seedlings grown for use as rootstock are considered best for
softwood grafting.
Selection of Scion:
Choose a scion from a
well-established khirni tree that exhibits the desired characteristics, such as
fruit quality, size and disease resistance. Select
scions having a pencil thickness from the ends of branches that are about 3-4
months old and have active, healthy terminal buds.
Materials required: Soft wood grafting
- Khirni scion stick
- Khirni rootstock
- Sharp grafting knife or budding knife
- Grafting tape or polythene strips
Procedure: soft
wood grafting
- Make certain to match scions with rootstock of equal thickness.
- Cut the rootstock seedling horizontally with a sharp knife at the top of the new growth of the rootstock.
- Split the cut upper end of the rootstock through to a depth of about 3-4 cm using a very sharp knife.
- Cut the scion to a final length of about 10-15 cm with a sharp knife.
- Sharpen the lower end of the scion into a V-shape by removing the wood on both sides using a grafting knife.
- Make the V-shape as deep as possible as this will increase the survival rate of the grafted scion. About 3 - 4 cm long is suitable.
- Slide the sharp end of the scion into the slot cut on the rootstock.
- Tie the grafted union tightly with grafting tape or polythene strip.
- Water the grafted plants as necessary.
- Remove the grafting tape or polythene strip when the wound is
completely healed and the scion starts sprouting.
Conclusion:
This approach proves more effective for establishing in situ khirni or rayan orchards in adverse soil and climatic conditions. The optimal grafting success is typically attained during the months of March, July, and August in the arid and semi-arid regions of Western India. It is important to note that the success of grafting depends on factors such as the time of grafting, proper selection of rootstock & scion, skill of the grafter and environmental conditions.