Behind every perfect orange that reaches the market lies science, agricultural knowledge and a tradition passed down from generation to generation: grafting. In Cocalni, citrus cooperative Based in Les Alqueries, we know that a good graft not only guarantees a good harvest, but also the health of the orange tree and the quality of the fruit.
What is a graft?
Grafting is an ancient agricultural technique that involves joining two different plants so that they grow as one. In the case of orange trees, a ‘rootstock’ (the part that comes into contact with the soil) and a ‘variety’ (the part that will bear fruit) are used.
The rootstock provides disease resistance, soil adaptation and vigour, while the selected variety defines the type of orange: sweet, sour, table or juice.
Why we graft at Cocalni
Not all soils are the same, nor do all oranges behave the same way in different climates. Thanks to grafting, we can choose the best combination for each plot, optimising resources, reducing treatments and improving productivity.
This enables our partners to obtain high-quality, sustainable harvests that are adapted to new climate challenges.
A process as delicate as it is vital
Grafting requires precision and experience. It is done when the tree is actively growing, usually in late spring or late summer. The grafting site is protected to promote fusion and is carefully monitored for weeks.
Tradition and innovation in balance
Although grafting is an ancient practice, the selection of rootstocks and varieties improves every year thanks to agricultural research. At the cooperative, we combine this tradition with the latest technical knowledge to continue offering quality fruit that meets market demands.
