Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Softwood grafting is a critical vegetative propagation technique for Psidium guajava L., a high-value tropical fruit crop widely cultivated across Africa and Southeast Asia. Manual grafting in guava production remains labor-intensive and inconsistent, resulting in variability in graft success and large-scale inefficiencies. This research describes the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of an automated grafting apparatus aimed at enhancing uniformity, precision, and efficiency in softwood propagation. The apparatus integrates a dual-blade guillotine cutting system, servo-actuated clamps, and a microcontroller-based feedback mechanism for precise alignment and pressure regulation. Field trials were conducted at the Eastern Rift Agricultural Institute, Kenya, using ‘Apple Guava’ and ‘China White’ cultivars as test materials. The results indicated a 25.7% improvement in graft success, a 41.3% reduction in operation time, and a consistent graft angle deviation within ±2°. The automated system exhibited strong correlation (r = 0.91) between alignment accuracy and graft survival rate, confirming its biological and mechanical efficacy. The apparatus’s low energy consumption (0.045 kWh per 100 grafts) and reduced labor dependence highlight its potential for sustainable nursery mechanization. The study concludes that integrating automation into guava propagation enhances both operational efficiency and grafting success, offering a viable model for modern horticultural enterprises in developing economies.