Information sheet Fruit trees and root stock choice
What is the difference between rootstock and variety in fruit trees?
Fruit trees can be constructed in various ways, whereby the tree is usually constructed from at least two parts: a rootstock and the variety. In some cases, an intermediate stem is required for compatibility or for straight trunk formation. This is then a third vegetative part that is placed between the rootstock and variety. To a lesser extent, you will also find fruit trees on their own root - in that case the tree has been propagated by root suckers or layering. Using a rootstock has a number of advantages, but also some potential disadvantages:
Advantages: easy to propagate varieties, you can influence the growth power of a variety and thus also reduce the scale of the architecture.
Disadvantages: every grafting point is a disruption in the tissue of the tree and that can have a negative effect in extreme weather conditions or at a later age.
How do you choose fruit trees and the suitable rootstocks for them?
With the Fruit Selection Tool-Rootstock (Fruitkeuzetool-Onderstam (Excel)) tool, you get help in choosing fruit trees and rootstocks. We provide you with basic information to help you find the right tree, what you can expect from it and what functions and goals it can fulfil in your design. The Excel consists of the following components:
1. Choose your type of fruit
2. Determine the growth force of your tree. (See Figure growth force and informative box)
3. Choose at what height you want the tree to branch
reference height
Small disclaimer
In a first step you choose which type of fruit you want to plant, but not all information about these types of fruit is in the tool. For more information you can find it on www.agroforestryvlaanderen.be, or on other websites). Comparing publications and asking around for practical experience can be a good addition. Also note that some varieties will look different depending on the soil type.
Authors
This tool is developed by Jeroen Rappé and Jorinde Odekerke
