I have a Grafted Miewa Kumquat I started about 6 months ago. It is on 'Swingle' root stock. It is nice and health. It recently had a flush of new growth. it now has 2 branches. as it is getting to be 18" tall I'm not overly concerned about one of the branches. the other concerns me. It is right on the graft. The leaves are not tri so I know it is part of the bud.
Here is a pic of the graft

Do I need to remove the branch or no? I was just reading about how after a few inches of growth I could cut the top of the root stock off. if I should trim off the branch I will do that at the same time.
Thanks for looking! and any advice.
Gina

I usually leave mine on especially if it makes a nice spread. But it depends upon what you want. Based on my experience, removing it or not doesn't make the existing branch grow quicker or slower. I have removed in some cases when I don't like how it looks. With Meiwa kumquats especially, it shouldn't really matter if you leave it on. You'll just have more places to have fruits.

Good graft Gina and a very good picture!

I usually rub mine off when they are right at the bud, but I agree with Joe, it is a matter of choice.

I wanted to mention that when I plan to break mine over like that, I put a 4" pull-tie about 1/2" above the bud and pull it good and tight. If fact, I like to put the pull-tie on right after the bud takes. It helps me find the bud later (my eyes aren't that good anymore) and keeps the rootstock from spliting beyond the bud.

Ned

I know my eyes aren't the best. I took a marker and marked where I put bud. I like that idea though. I was worried it would continue to split but the graft is far enough below the break. Think I will try that next time.
I will Cut the top of the root stock off tomorrow and since the little branch won't harm the graft I'll leave it be.
Gina *BabyBlue*

Gina, I remember when you first mentioned that you did the budding. I want to agree with Ned's comment, that it really looks like a nice grafting job. - Millet

Well.. here it is about 12 hrs after trimming off the top of the root stock and the tree is still alive so I guess I didn't do too bad.. LOL
Thanks for the kind words!. It means allot coming for you all.
My husband said... "when Ronan *my oldest that just turned 17* was a new born you were rushing him to the Dr for every little thing, took you yrs to stop doing that, when are you going to quit Spazzing over every little detail of these poor trees??" Guess you guys are the Tree Drs.. hehehe and I'm just a new momma.. one of these days I'll get the hang of it all. Thanks for being patient with me!!!
Here is a picture of the tree after the trim. I did leave the branches in place.


Thanks for the advice!!
Gina *BabyBlue*