Question

(a) What is meant by 'grafting' as a means of propagation in plants?
(b) Define 'stock' and 'scion'.
(c) Describe the grafting method for the artificial propagation of plants with the help of labelled diagrams.
(d) Name two fruit trees which are usually propagated by grafting method.
(e) State two advantages of grafting method of artificial propagation of plants.
(f) What is the difference between the cuttings method and grafting method for the artificial propagation of plants?

Answer 1

(a) Grafting is a method of artificial propagation in which the stem of two plants are cut, one with and the other without roots. These stems are then joined together to form a single plant.

(b) The lower portion of the graft, i.e. the stem with roots is termed as a stock. The upper portion of the graft, i.e. the stem without roots is termed as a scion.

(c) In grafting, two plants of the desired traits are chosen. First, the plant that has been chosen as the scion is cut slantingly, then the stock is also cut in the same manner. After that, the scion is placed over the stock and tightly fitted together. Either they are tied by a piece of cloth or covered using a polythene sheet.



(d) Apple and orange trees are propagated by the method of grafting.

(e) The first advantage of this method of propagation is that plants with desired characteristics are obtained. Also, with this method, young stems can be made to flower and bear fruits quickly.

(f)

Cutting	Grafting
In cutting, only one plant is involved.	In grafting, two plants are involved.
New plant formed from cutting, is identical to its parent.	The new plant has characteristics of both the parents.