Rootstocks explained

All of our fruit trees are grafted, meaning they are propagated by joining a cutting from one tree to the root system of another tree. The cutting, known as the scion, develops into the upper framework of the tree and determines the variety of fruit the tree produces (e.g. Victoria plum, Discovery apple). The lower section is called the rootstock. This determines other properties of the tree, including its vigour, ultimate height and spread, cropping potential and tolerance of different soil conditions.

As a general rule, more vigorous rootstocks have a higher tolerance of poor soil conditions, while dwarfing rootstocks require good quality, well-draining soil in order to thrive. More information on the ultimate height of different rootstocks is given in the chart below. Not all of the rootstock types listed are available at our nursery.

If you have the space, we recommend opting for trees grown on a semi-vigorous rootstock (e.g. MM106). For smaller spaces, such as an inner city garden, trees on dwarfing rootstock are more suitable as they remain compact throughout their lives. Trees on very dwarfing rootstock (e.g. M27) can even be grown in a pot or raised bed.