Which statement concerning grafting is correct? a. Stocks and scions refer to twigs of different species. b. Stocks and scions must come from unrelated species. c. Stocks provide root systems for grafting. d. Grafting creates new species.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the terms. In grafting, 'stocks' refer to the part of the plant that provides the root system, while 'scions' are the parts grafted onto the stock.
2. Step 2: Evaluate each statement. Statement a is incorrect because stocks and scions can come from the same species.
3. Step 3: Statement b is also incorrect. Stocks and scions do not have to come from unrelated species. In fact, grafting is often more successful when they come from closely related species.
4. Step 4: Statement d is incorrect. Grafting does not create new species. It combines parts of existing plants, but does not result in a new species.
5. Step 5: Therefore, the correct statement is c. Stocks do provide the root systems for grafting.

Key Concepts

Grafting Basics

Grafting is a horticultural technique where tissues from one plant (the scion) are inserted into the root system of another plant (the stock). This method allows for the combination of desirable traits from both plants, such as disease resistance or improved fruit quality.

Stocks and Scions

In grafting, the stock is the part of the plant that provides the root system, while the scion is the part that is grafted onto the stock. They can be from the same species or closely related species, allowing for compatibility and successful grafting.

Species Compatibility

For successful grafting, stocks and scions do not necessarily need to come from unrelated species; they often come from the same species or closely related ones. This compatibility is crucial for the graft to take and for the plants to grow together effectively.