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Apple
Rootstocks
The roots and
lower part of the stem of the tree, below the graft union,
are called the rootstock. Each rootstock has its own distinct
characteristics, including:
degree of dwarfing
precocity
productivity
hardiness
anchorage
disease resistance
site and soil adaptability
There are a large
number of rootstocks available. Depending on the characteristics
for which they were chosen, there can be a wide variation
in performance. Rootstocks have therefore been classified
according to their potential vigour. In North America, the
classification system has five categories:
subdwarf
dwarf
semidwarf
semivigorous
vigorous
Some of the common
rootstocks that are commercially used in this area are:
Dwarf
M.26 - 10'-14' tall. Must be supported on a
trellis or post system. Trees crop in 3 to 4 years. Susceptible
to fireblight.
M.9 - 8'-10' tall. Trees tend to lean and require
support. Crops in three years. Moderately susceptible to
fireblight.
Semidwarf
MM.111 - 16'-20' tall. Does not require support.
Resistant to most diseases. Relatively slow to crop (5-7
years). Produces moderate amounts of root suckers and burrknots.
MM.106 - 14'-16' tall. Unsupported, but will
lean a little. Produces crop at 4-5 years. Susceptible to
collar rot. Not recommended on poorly drained soil.
M.7 - 16' - 18' tall. Must be supported with many
varieties. Trees produce a crop in 4-6 years. Produces numerous
root suckers.
Vigorous
Seedling - 18'-22' tall. Unsupported. Slow to crop
(7-8 years). Resistant to most diseases.
Others
Other rootstocks are attracting attention, but these are
still under evaluation. Some of the promising rootstocks
include:
Ottawa 3
Budagovsky 9
CG series (including CG.30)
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