Abstract
In previous reports, we investigated the performance of a fabricated processing apparatus that could perform the Plug-in method as a new grafting method using tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). As a result of those grafting experiments, we found that it was necessary to evaluate the joining performance not only by the grafting success ratio but also by the growing activity of grafted seedlings after the acclimatization process. And also we found that it was important to develop a system that provided optimum acclimatization conditions. Therefore, in this paper we describe the performance of a fabricated acclimatizing apparatus for making high quality grafted seedlings. We found that an ultrasonic humidifier was able to maintain a stable temperature and humidity and was able to quickly respond to changes. We also report on the performance of grafted seedlings with the Plug-in method using this fabricated acclimatization system. Seedlings grafted with the Plug-in method whose joining shape is equaly direction, have a large joining area and a full contact. Therefore, these seedlings have the capacity to discharge large amounts of nourishment and water between the scion and stock, and both the top and root were grown in balance. The interaction between sink and source in these grafted plants is demonstrated to be sufficient. Moreover, scion overgrowing stock was never observed because the stem of the stock perfectly matches the stem of the scion with respect to both the axial centers and the circumference.
