Removing graft from crabapple

Question

I have a Red Jade crabapple tree that I planted as a specimen 8 years ago. This year it’s become evident that its two lowest branches were grafted onto it from another kind of tree, as the leaves and fruit are significantly larger and darker, and the branches do not have the weeping habit of the red jade. Is it possible to remove the grafted branches and re-establish them as independent trees? I am a total novice at this, so grateful for any advice.

Answer 1

It’s more likely that the two lower branches are growing from the root stock that your red jade was grafted onto. You can prune them off entirely, prune them back, or let them be — your choice. Here’s an article on grafting, FYI: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/grafting-trees-what-is-tree-grafting.htm

Answer 2

Thank you very much! After posting here, I did some more reading and realised that may well be the case. I will try to root some cuttings from the lower branches before pruning off. Thanks again: your help is very much appreciated.