APPLES

Apples are grafted on to a range of rootstocks that control the rate at which the trees will grow as well as their eventual size. Rootstocks which have been developed by East Malling and Long Ashton Research Stations are prefixed M or MM and are free of known viruses.

M27 is very dwarfing producing trees unlikely to exceed 6ft. in height or spread. They crop very early in life, are ideal for the smaller garden or for growing in tubs. Little pruning is needed as the root systems are small. They need fertile soil and a stake.

M.9 is also a dwarfing rootstock that makes trees about 7-8ft. in height and spread. Again trees must always be staked to prevent them falling over in high winds or when fully laden with apples. Trees on M.9 also produce fruit early in life.

MM.106 This is the ideal size for average gardens. Good anchorage, with trees 10-12ft. in height and width. MM.106 is also good on poor or sandy soils.

M.25 is a more vigorous rootstock suitable for specimen or orchard trees making 16-18ft. at maturity.

Quince A. and Quince C. rootstocks. Generally weak growing varieties are grafted on the more vigorous Quince A and strong varieties on Quince C to control the growth. When mature, all will be about the same height.

St Julien A is fully compatible with all plums, damsons, gages, peaches, nectarines, apricots and many ornamental Prunus species.

Pixy is quite dwarf (up to 40% smaller than St Julien A). Fruiting is prolific but sometimes the fruit is slightly smaller. Pixy is not a compatible rootstock with peaches and nectarines.

Gisela 5 is a dwarfing rootstock for cherries that will reach only 8-10ft at maturity so there is no excuse not to include a cherry in your garden, however small it is. It is proving popular and reliable.

Colt is very productive and is fully compatible with all sweet and flowering varieties. Trees normally make 12-15ft.

Torinel is a new rootstock we are now growing all our apricots on. It has been specially bred for Apricots and will be a marked improvement for disease tolerance and fruiting performance.

Trees on M.9, M.27 and Pixy rootstocks always require firm staking.

FRUIT TREES. You will notice a bend in the tree just above ground level. This is the union between rootstock and variety it is IMPORTANT THAT THIS REMAINS AT LEAST 2 INCHES above ground level after planting.