From an HOS grafting class and later the scion exchange, I came home with several newly grafted trees (scion onto rootstock). They are all in the ground, and all seem to have nice new, green buds growing above the graft. I have Lapin cherry, Williams Pride and Winochee Early apples, an asian pear and a european pear.

Question: for the ones that have more than one bud above the graft, When do I choose which to save as the new trunk and thus prune the others off? Do I want them to grow several inches, or grow a year, or just pluck all off but one right now, in the growing bud stage?

Thanks!
Brian in Portland, OR

I know some will say to cut all but one, but I would let them grow for awhile. Slugs come in and wipe them out and you;'re sorry. I personally would let them grow at least for this growing season. I usually don't cut the others out.
John S
pdx or

I would allow two to grow. Then if something should happen to one of them, you'll have a backup. But I do think it's best to concentrate the growth in as few shoots as you are comfortable with.

Thanks! Didn't realize the slugs may climb the wannabe tree and take the leaves. I'll put out some anti slug stuff and let the buds grow for a while!