Choosing the right rootstock for your apple and pear trees
A rootstock is the root system of any given tree. They’re used for tree propagation and determine the eventual size of the tree. They’re also instrumental in helping the tree cope with different soil types – for example wetter or drier conditions or soil that is of poor quality - to promote disease resistance and to ensure compatibility with weather variations at the orchard’s location, such as cold winters.
We owe thanks to the Romans not only for our love of apples but also the skill to graft them. All apple trees are grafted because apples don’t come true from seed: if you want to ensure a cultivar, you have to take a cutting.
How to grow a new tree
To propagate a new tree, some of last year's growth from the ‘mother tree’ is cut off (scion wood) and then grafted or budded onto the rootstock. Rootstock needs to be compatible to form a strong union with the scion wood – for example, apple trees need apple rootstock – although there are some exceptions to this such as quince rootstock being grown with some pears. Once the union of rootstock and scion wood is made, the selected variety grows up to become the tree, which can then be planted out in the ground (or potted).
Rootstock varieties from our apple and pear tree nursery
There are many different rootstocks available. Here at Tyn y Berllan we have chosen to graft our apple trees on varieties we feel most appropriate to our climate and the needs of our customers:
- M116 – Medium. 3.5m+ high.
Space trees 3-6m apart. 150-180 trees per acre. Tolerant of wetter soil conditions. Start fruiting after 3-4 years.
- MM106 – Semi vigorous. 3.5m+ high.
Space trees 3-6m apart. 150-180 trees per acre. Good for half standards, espaliers, cordons. Start fruiting after 3-4 years.
- M25 – Very vigorous. 4.5m+ high.
Space trees 6-9m apart. Ideal in poorer soil and/or in exposed sites. Start fruiting after 5-6 years.
Our pear trees are grafted using Pyrus rootstock. This is a very vigorous rootstock, ideal for large, traditional orchard trees. Can reach a height of 6m or more. Space trees 6-9m apart. Although slower into cropping – from around 6-7 years - the fruit will be high quality.
Buy apple trees online
Hopefully this will provide you with an overview of what rootstock is and what you might need to consider when purchasing your trees. If you require further assistance or help choosing the right rootstock you can contact us here.
