This is an example of a grafting success story. In this case the “take” of the scionwood on the tree in this photo looks very good after two years. A couple of bark grafts were placed on a youngish, multi-stemmed tree, primarily as a holding unit. That isn’t a bad idea if you find yourself with scions and no rootstock to partner them with, particularly if this is a “variety” that you haven’t established anywhere yet, AND there is just one known specimen out there. In this case that original tree
In this case that original tree is at great risk of being cut down because of its proximity to the road Notice the not so clever descriptor indicating where to find this, sure to puzzle anyone, including me! While I am uncertain how this variety will present itself, not being grown under a birch tree, I can chalk it up to another reminder to collect wood and graft anything that looks like it may have potential, and be at risk for removal.
Using grafting onto random rootstock in order to “store” rare scionwood for later use.
This apple grew up the road, and within a 100 yards or so of an abandoned orchard that has become thicket like. I spotted this on a walkabout, influenced by the possibility that some deer planted offspring might be lurking around. It was unlike the very obvious, full size trees growing across the road, more like a Charlie Brown Christmas tree, struggling to grow and be noticed. It had no remarkable qualities, other than a pleasing taste. Perhaps this graft will shed light on its potential.
While there are countless roadside finds out there awaiting discovery, I need to remind folks of my casual encounters with noteworthy fruit bearing trees at a Motel, a McDonald’s, a Bank, a Restaurant and a Dollar Store, just in the Bangor area. All of these were brought to my attention because of the inattention and lack of follow up care of intentionally planted crab apples. Keep your eyes open, you will find these.
Will these discoveries all bring you delight? Not necessarily. Below are two small apple trees found in a restaurant parking lot in Brewer. I don’t understand how these came about, though perhaps this is another example of the rootstock overtaking the original grafted crabapples that may have both failed. (Though it is possible that these were varieties of apples intentionally planted out and received no care.) Both of these exhibited blemished and less than tasty fruit, not nasty, but just nothing you’d want to consume out of hand or offer anyone. These may have potential for cider or sauce. The messy drops that rain down on the parking area alert me to the fact that they could be eliminated for such untidy attributes. Fruit like this may appear even less appetizing to the management.
