Stretch Film Tape for Grafting, Budding and Layering

Size: 75MM * 23 Micron

Stretch film tape, often referred to as grafting tape or budding tape, is a specialized type of plastic film used in horticulture for the propagation techniques of grafting, budding, and layering. Its unique properties make it highly effective for these purposes.

Here’s a breakdown of Stretch Film Tapes characteristics and uses:

Key Characteristics:

• Stretchable and Flexible: This is perhaps its most crucial feature. The tape can be stretched considerably, allowing it to conform snugly to irregular shapes and exert gentle, consistent pressure on the graft union or bud. This flexibility also means it stretches with the plant’s growth, preventing girdling (constriction) as the plant expands.
• Self-Adhesive (often without traditional adhesive): Many grafting tapes are “self-adhesive” in that they cling to themselves when stretched, forming a tight seal without the need for sticky glues that could harm the plant. This makes them easy to apply and remove.
• Waterproof and Moisture Barrier: The film creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss from the delicate graft site or bud. This is vital for maintaining the hydration needed for successful callus formation and union.
• Translucent/Transparent: Most grafting tapes are clear or translucent, allowing sunlight to penetrate. This is important for photosynthesis, especially for buds that need light to develop.
• Biodegradable (for some types): Some grafting tapes are designed to degrade over time when exposed to sunlight, eliminating the need for manual removal and reducing labor.
• Allows Gas Exchange: While acting as a moisture barrier, good quality grafting tape also allows for some gas exchange (oxygen in, carbon dioxide out), which is essential for the living tissues beneath.
• Durable: Despite being stretchable, it needs to be strong enough to withstand handling and environmental factors like wind.

Uses in Plant Propagation:

1. Grafting:

   • Purpose: Grafting involves joining two plant parts (scion and rootstock) so they grow as one. The stretch film tape is used to hold the scion and rootstock firmly together, ensuring tight contact between their vascular cambium layers.
   • Application: After the cuts are made and the scion is placed on the rootstock, the tape is wrapped tightly around the union, starting from below the cut and working upwards. It provides the necessary pressure for the tissues to fuse and protects the wound from desiccation and pathogens.

2. Budding:

   • Purpose: Budding is a type of grafting where a single bud (with a small piece of bark) from one plant (the scion) is inserted into an incision on another plant (the rootstock).
   • Application: The tape is used to secure the bud in place, ensuring good contact with the rootstock’s cambium. It also protects the bud from drying out and provides a stable environment for it to “take.”

3. Layering (especially Air Layering):

   • Purpose: Layering is a method of plant propagation where roots are encouraged to form on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. In air layering, a section of stem is wounded, treated with rooting hormone, and then enclosed in a moist medium (like sphagnum moss).
   • Application: Stretch film tape is commonly used to securely wrap the moist rooting medium around the wounded stem section, creating a sealed environment that retains moisture and promotes root development. The clear film allows you to observe root growth without disturbing the setup.

Benefits of using Stretch Film Tape:

• Increased Success Rate: By providing optimal conditions for healing and union, it significantly improves the chances of successful grafts, buds, and layers.
• Protection: Shields the vulnerable propagation site from environmental stresses, pests, and diseases.
• Convenience: Easy to apply and, for biodegradable types, requires no removal.
• Versatility: Can be used on a wide variety of plants, fruit trees, and flowers.

When selecting stretch film tape for these purposes, look for products specifically marketed as “grafting tape” or “budding tape” as they possess the ideal combination of stretch, adhesion (self-clinging), moisture retention, and often biodegradability.