The use of dwarfing rootstocks is the primary means utilized to affect tree size. Apples are the fruit crop that most commonly utilizes dwarfing rootstock. Size range from the very dwarfing rootstocks such as M.27 and P.16 to nearly standard size rootstocks such as MM.111 and MM.106. In pears there is not nearly the range in size controlling rootstocks the majority of which are only +/- 20% the size of seedling.
Characteristics of Apple Rootstocks
The joint Cornell University and United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) Apple Rootstock Breeding and Evaluation Program develops new rootstock cultivars with an emphasis on productivity, yield efficiency, ease of nursery propagation, fire blight resistance, tolerance to extreme temperatures, resistance to the soil pathogens of the sub-temperate regions of the US, and tolerance to apple replant disorder.
Honey Crisp Apple
In 2006–2008, the peak industry body Apple and Pear Australia Limited, conducted an educational workshop series for apple and pear orchardists called ‘Future Orchards 2012’. The aim of the two-year project was to provide growers with the knowledge, skills and confidence to plant new orchards to intensive systems. Technical content for the project was provided by the consultants AgFirst New Zealand and other invited Australian and international speakers.
Mosbah M. Kushad Department of Crop Sciences University of Illinois
Apple Rootstocks - Summit Tree Sales
John Cline, University of Guelph, Simcoe & Vineland Campuses
Rootstocks for Apple Trees
Rootstocks for Apple Fruit Trees In Wisconsin
