Which rootstock should I choose when planting an apple tree?

WHAT IS ROOTSTOCK AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?

The rootstock onto which your tree is grafted will determine the ultimate height of the tree when it is mature. If you are planting on open ground and have lots of room then this is not so relevant but for those with smaller gardens or who wish to grow their own fruit on the patio or in pots then the information below should give you some pointers.

I WANT TO PLANT AN APPLE TREE, WHICH ROOTSTOCK SHOULD I CHOOSE?

If you are looking for a very small tree with ultimate height of about 4 to 5ft (1.5m) then M27 – Very dwarf is what you should be looking for, we would recommend:  Malus Cox self fertile M27,  or Malus ‘James Grieve’ M27

M9 – Dwarf.  Is a high producing rootstock but does require staking permanently so this makes if ideal for cordons. – Malus Greensleeves cordon M9  or Malus Little Pax Cordon M9 are among those which we stock here at Larch Cottage

M26 is classed as a semi-dwarf and the final height of the tree will be about 3m or 10ft – Malus Egremont Russet M26 is a good example of this rootstock

MM106 – Is classed as semi vigourous and suitable for cordons, reaching a height of around 3.5 to 4 metres or 12 to 13ft in 10 years. Staking is advised in exposed areas – Malus Christmas Pippin MM106  or Malus Scrumptious MM106 are good examples

M25 – Produces a very vigorous tree which will grow over 4 metres i(12 to 13ft and above) in height Malus Keswick Codling

WHAT ROOTSTOCK SHOULD I LOOK FOR ON A CHERRY TREE?

Colt – is a Semi-Dwarf rootstock.  This ia a very productive rootstock and is fully compatible with all sweet and flowering varieties. Trees will grow to an eventual height of 3.6 meters 911 to 12ft). We would recommend Prunus Cherry ‘Lapins’ HST Colt

Gisela 5 – Dwarf. This is a good rootstock for orchards, gardens and patio pots. One such as Prunus Cherry Morello Gilsela 5 AGM would be perfect.

THE ROOTSTOCK OF PLUMS, DAMSONS, GAGES, PEACHES AND APRICOTS PLUS MANY ORNAMENTAL PRUNUS

St.Julien ‘A’ – Semi-Vigorous, is a fully compatible rootstock and gives a height of Height 3.5 to 4 metres in 10 years. (12 to 13ft). A popular damson with this rootstock is:  Prunus –Damson ‘Merrryweather Damson ‘St Julian A’ HST Damson 

Pixy – As the name suggests is a Dwarf rootstock and ideal for the smaller garden. Prunus – Damson King of Damsons (Pixy) or if you would like a small plum tree which produces lots of fruit try Prunus – Plum ‘Victoria’ Pixy AGM

Brompton – Vigorous.  Perfect for a traditional, large, standard plum tree, suitable for orchards. Height 5 metres (15 ft)  Prunus Plum ‘Opal’ Bromptton HST