Creating a hybrid grafted plant of Thai Long Banana (Musa sapientum) and Chikku (Manilkara zapota), also known as Sapota or Sapodilla, involves specific steps to ensure successful propagation and growth. Here's a guide on how you might approach it:

1. Research and Selection:

   • Research existing Thai Long Banana and Chikku varieties and their characteristics, including fruit size, flavor, yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to local climatic conditions.
   • Select parent plants with desirable traits, such as high yield, superior flavor, disease resistance, and suitability to the local climate.

2. Rootstock Selection:

   • Choose a rootstock suitable for both banana and Chikku trees and compatible with the selected scions. Rootstocks suitable for bananas and Chikku might differ, so careful consideration is needed.
   • Ensure the rootstock is well-suited to the local soil and climate conditions.

3. Scion Selection:

   • Select healthy and disease-free scions from mature Thai Long Banana and Chikku trees with desirable fruit characteristics, such as size, flavor, and texture.
   • Choose scion wood that is vigorous and suitable for grafting onto the selected rootstock.

4. Grafting Technique:

   • Employ a grafting technique suitable for both banana and Chikku, such as cleft grafting or side-veneer grafting, to join the scions onto the selected rootstock.
   • Ensure proper alignment and a tight graft union to facilitate successful integration of both scions.

5. Optimal Growing Conditions:

   • Provide well-draining soil rich in organic matter for optimal root development.
   • Ensure the grafted plant receives full sunlight, as both bananas and Chikku trees thrive in sunny locations.
   • Maintain consistent moisture levels by watering regularly, especially during dry periods.

6. Pruning and Training:

   • Prune the grafted plant regularly to maintain its desired shape and size, remove any unwanted growth, and promote healthy development of both banana and Chikku branches.
   • Train the plant to develop a strong framework of branches and support structures, especially for the banana portion.

7. Fertilization and Nutrient Management:

   • Apply balanced fertilizers or organic amendments to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruit development.
   • Monitor soil pH and nutrient levels to ensure optimal conditions for both banana and Chikku growth.

8. Pest and Disease Management:

   • Implement integrated pest management practices to prevent and control common pests and diseases affecting both banana and Chikku trees.
   • Monitor the plant regularly for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies, and take corrective action as needed.

9. Harvesting:

   • Allow the grafted plant to mature and produce fruit for both Thai Long Banana and Chikku.
   • Harvest the bananas when they are fully ripe and the Chikku when they have reached their mature size and are soft to the touch.
   • Handle the harvested fruit carefully to minimize damage and preserve their quality during storage and transport.

By following these steps and providing attentive care, you can increase the likelihood of successfully propagating a hybrid grafted plant of Thai Long Banana and Chikku with desirable characteristics from both parent species.