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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Vol. 12 No. 3 (2025)

Exploring the use of wild species in vegetable grafting

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.7942
Submitted
26 February 2025
Published
19-07-2025 — Updated on 29-07-2025
Versions

Abstract

Grafting is a horticultural technique that combines a scion and rootstock to produce a grafted seedling with improved quality. It will be another way to reduce the yield loss caused by soil-borne pathogens. It is a very useful technique for decreasing plant disease and improving the quality and yield of produce. In that case, rootstocks are used to establish a strong root system, enhance disease resistance, and determine the phenotype of the grafted plants. The scion is used to provide the vegetative character in the grafted plant. Nowadays, disease and pest incidence in plants is high due to the resistance or tolerance of pests and soil-borne pathogens against chemical use. Instead of using chemicals to control pests and pathogens, the grafting technique is a very useful method. Some of the wild species have a resistance trait to pests, pathogens, and abiotic stresses. It serves as a genetic resource for vegetable crop improvement by grafting. Grafting using wild species is not only a new technology to improve yield, but also to enhance disease resistance and resilience. This paper examines the latest advancements in vegetable grafting using wild species. It provides in-depth information on the advantages, disadvantages and potential applications of grafting. A sustainable approach to addressing the issues of soil degradation, climate change and the rising demand for premium vegetables in agriculture is the incorporation of grafting with wild species. Grafting does not directly reverse soil degradation, but it provides a biological tool to manage the consequences of degraded soils. It enables continued productivity, reduces chemical dependence and supports soil-friendly agricultural practices. This review provides an overview of grafting techniques, suitable species, rootstocks and scions.

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