How to Keep Picea Abies Grafts Moist

Propagating or cloning trees is often accomplished by rooting vegetative cuttings. Since many conifer cuttings don't root successfully, some varieties -- such as Colorado blue spruce -- are grafted onto Picea abies rootstocks, better known as Norway spruce. For the graft to take rather than rot, the area must neither get wet nor dry out. Use grafting wax or paint to seal the wounds and maintain the perfect moisture levels.

Grafting wax or paint
Double boiler
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Select a grafting hand wax or paint, available in home and garden stores. Hand wax is easy and common for the average home gardener to use, according to University of Missouri.
- 2
  Slice off a piece of grafting wax with a knife. Hold it in your hand until it softens. If you selected a grafting paint, melt the wax in a double boiler until it's soft, not piping hot.
- 3
  Apply the wax with your hands over the entire graft, liberally covering the wounds completely. Soften more wax and apply it as necessary. If you're using a paint, apply it with a paintbrush over the grafting area.

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