Fruit tree lovers in number at the Alès Graft Exchange

Un public nombreux a assisté aux démonstrations. Midi Libre – F. A.

De nombreuses variétés de fruitiers présentées. Midi Libre – F. A.

Un geste nécessitant une grande précision et une technique éprouvée. Midi Libre – F. A.

A day dedicated to the fruit tree and the techniques for making grafts.

"It should be remembered, an apple seed will never produce an apple tree. If we want the tree to bear fruit, it must be grafted,” attacks Jacky Brard of the Vergers de Lozère association in his presentation to a large audience this Saturday, at the ethnobotanical and d&n garden. ;rsquo;acclimatization of Fort Vauban.

The demonstration continues, knife in hand: "When you have an apple tree, you need to graft a variety. This consists of allowing the rootstock to carry the sap into the grafted tree."

Several techniques are then applicable depending on the type of fruit tree, the diameter of the branch where the graft will be implanted.

The very technical operation requires great dexterity. The public carefully follows the advice given by the specialist. "You need to assemble the rootstock to the scion. We connect the two parts as best as possible so that healing is optimal. Then, we will see the buds arrive."

The executive of the Vergers de Lozère association is satisfied with the attendance of the event: "In this world where everything is commerce, we remain one of the last areas where exchange is practiced. We exchange seeds, plants, grafts. This is a fundamental approach when we have a passion like us for trees and plants. We give, we take, we try… It’s curiosity that guides us."

Jacky Brard gives a final instruction: "you should not buy a fruit tree if you don’not know the rootstock, because this will determine the development of the’ TREE. If you have a small garden, it is better to avoid a tree with a strong growth."