Unting

Unting is a horticultural practice that involves deliberately removing the bark, or cambium layer, from a tree trunk to create a wound that facilitates root proliferation or the attachment of grafts and buds. The technique is most commonly employed in the propagation of fruit trees, ornamental shrubs, and timber species. By exposing the inner cambium, the tree is encouraged to produce new growth, which can enhance graft success rates or stimulate vigorous root development.

The unting process is performed with specialized tools such as hand saws, line cutters, or powered sandblasters. A surgeon-like blade may be used to create a clean, radial cut around the stem at a precise depth. Care is taken to avoid damaging the underlying phloem, which could compromise the tree's vascular system. After excision, the wound is often protected with wound dressing or coated with a specialized sealant to reduce infection risk and promote healing.

This practice differs from pruning or shedding; unting is a controlled injury aimed at stimulating physiological responses rather than simply reducing size or removing dead material. For grafting, the wound may be engineered to match the shape of the scion, ensuring a tight fit and improved vascular union. In rootstock propagation, the wound encourages adventitious roots to form, drastically shortening the period required for graft establishment.

Safety considerations include wearing protective gloves, eye protection, and ensuring that tools are sanitized to prevent the spread of pathogens. Additionally, the environmental conditions should be monitored: temperature, humidity, and rainfall can influence the healing trajectory. Properly executed, unting has become a standard practice among commercial nurseries and specialty growers looking to maximize tree vigor, increase yield, and improve overall crop quality.