CULT:grafting (Re: Canadian Streaker sdlgs)

I have no firsthand knowledge of this being done with irises.  But in general,
a graft or bud-graft requires that the cambium layers of both the in-grafted
structure and the rooted structure are in contact at least in part of the
connection between the two genetic individuals.

In iris rhizomes, I assume the cambium layer is dormant and exhausted, but
still present, in the connection between the slightly corky layer that is the
outside skin or epidermis of a rhizome and the more or less white inner
tissues making up the bulk of the rhizome.

The cambium is active in and near the apical meristem points along the side of
the rhizome in the axils of former leaves--these points are those from which
sprouts or side rhizomes form.  It is especially present in the primary
growing tip of the rhizome in the core from which leaves and blossom stems
arise.  Those need to remain undisturbed if a supply of new nutrients formed
in the leaves is needed--and it will be if successful.

To bud or in-graft the Canadian Streaker babies, I would suggest slicing off a
slight amount of the epidermal corky layer on the rhizome just under the white
leaves, and making a T-shaped cut on the side of the green-leaved rhizome at
the layer or level where new side buds could arise.  The T-shaped cut needs to
penetrate through the epidermal corky skin, but no farther.  Then loosen the
two angular sides -- those parts just under the top crossing of the T, and
slip in the injured white seedling, the sliced side facing inward, then take a
rubber band or another flexible material to secure the bud in place under the
skin--preventing the skin from drying out, and keeping the seedling in place
securely so that it does not move.

Also, I would think it possible to insert a seedling or two into the green
part of a potted cactus, the sort that have the pink or cream albino cacti
grafted onto their tops for sale in grocery and 'mart stores garden and floral
sections..  Grafts do not always have to be on the same species....they just
have to have compatible chemistry.  Many cacti are very flexible.

Another possibility is a potato--same procedure in or near an eye.  This is
less likely than the cactus, I would think, but worth trying.  What's there to
lose?  They will die anyway if left to themselves.

Still another possibility--take a green leaved seedling that can be
sacrificed--make a slice of similar size to that of the albino and put the two
sliced sides together, rubber band securing them, being careful to make sure
the nearly invisible layer between epidermal skin and inner part of the tiny
rhizomes are in contace for at least part of the connection.  Grow them as
twins--the green supplying what the albino lacks.

All the above need a very steady hand and a very sharp knife, rather like a
scapel, extremely sharp pocket knife or razor blade.

Two cents worth.

Neil Mogensen  z 7 western NC mountains

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