ANATOMICAL STUDIES ON GRAFT FORMATION IN CASHEW (ANACARDIUM OCCIDENTALE L.)

The research studied the changes in the graft union with influence on graft success and subsequent performance until the 98 th day after initial side grafting of Anacardium occidentale rootstock seedlings. Thirty days after grafting, the necrotic layer and calli cells began enlarging between scion and stock. There was gradual disappearance of the necrotic layer, preceding callus formation and the fusion of the scion and stock at 60 day after grafting. Results at 98-days after grafting showed cambium linkage and a healed union edge. Unsuccessful grafts at 98-days after grafting showed a wide gap at the cortex of scion and stock. Graft union success is a key factor in successful graft-take and subsequent performance of grafted seedlings.