What is t-budding?

• A. Plant propagation method used to insert a small bud into the bark
• B. A type of fertilizer
• C. A pruning technique
• D. A soil test method

Answer: (A)

T-budding is a propagation technique where a single bud from a scion is inserted under a T-shaped cut in the bark of a rootstock. A shallow T is cut, the bark is gently lifted, and a bud with a thin sliver of bark is placed under the flaps so the cambial layers of the bud and stock touch. Wrapping the area helps keep it moist and secure until the graft heals and the bud grows. This method is especially common for fruit trees because it works well on larger rootstocks and gives a true-to-type bud for propagation. It isn’t about fertilizer, pruning, or soil testing, which is why those options don’t fit.