What’s the best way to strengthen a bud??? 💪

[Daniel son STL]

I’ve already needle plucked the top to balance more energy to the lower branches.
Ive thread grafted and approached, this was my first attempt at a (scion) graft? I believe is what’s it called but I honestly forgot the terminology. Anyway it was done last fall and 1 of the 3 scions survived the winter with two long needles only collecting energy. A little bud formed but damn is it a weak turd!!!


Still learning with different pines as these are my hardest species to work with.

What’s the best way to ensure the survival of that little bud?
Thanks friends!

 

[Wires_Guy_wires]

When I did scion grafting on pines I left a bag around the scion and it had its own set of needles. Much like a juniper scion.

I think buds can't get any stronger until they tell the tree that they're growing and require more resources. That would mean letting it grow.

 

[Shibui]

Inner and lower grafts are always slower to establish. I suspect you've already done what's required by checking the upper section. That should allow more of the tree's efforts to go to the lower shoots, including your graft.