posted 7 years ago
Yes, root stock will form leaf buds first, which need to be removed, remember the root stock is the parent and it wants to grow normally so you have to coax it into forming the connection with the scion graft portion.
The best grafts marry the cambium layer of the stock to the scion, that way the wound will heal faster once the sap starts to flow.
Most failed grafts have at least one side of the scion not exactly lined up with the cambium and that is what causes the failure.
Keep watch and rub off any stock buds or leaves so the stock gets the message that it needs to grow the scion instead.