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M9 or M26 Rootstock for Apple Tree?
I'm in the process of buying an apple tree, and am having real trouble deciding between M9 and M26 for the rootstock.
My garden isn't that large (I live in the town), so I was erring towards M9, which is a ultimately couple of feet shorter. However getting hold of apple trees on M9 isn't very easy. They are expensive and the range is rather limited. M26 seems by far the most common of the dwarfing/semi-dwarfing rootstocks, with the trees most places are selling being grafted onto that.
So basically what I want to know is would M26 be so bad? On average, how much bigger than M9 does it grow (I know I can get size charts online, but I'd like some personal experience)? How does the crop you get from both types of tree compare? Also, how much longer does it take for M26 to start cropping, as I hear M9 has a tendency to start cropping earlier than other rootstocks?
Put even more simply, is M26 suitable for a town garden?
8 Answers
- sciencegravyLv 77 years agoFavorite Answer
I wouldn't consider the size difference significant. I've put in lots of trees, and as time goes on, I keep leaning more toward the "dwarfer" stock if there is a choice in front of me. They're just easier to take care of, because of the size. But a 2 foot difference is just not a big deal. M26 would be "dwarf enough" for me, and for someone with a small garden.
Between the two, I wouldn't bend over backwards to find one over the other. If M26 is available, go for it. I have several with that stock, and they're fine. (Also, although I don't have experience with it, I've been reading that M9 is a bad choice if fireblight is prevalent, which is why you might be having a hard time finding it.)
- 6 years ago
This Site Might Help You.
RE:
M9 or M26 Rootstock for Apple Tree?
I'm in the process of buying an apple tree, and am having real trouble deciding between M9 and M26 for the rootstock.
My garden isn't that large (I live in the town), so I was erring towards M9, which is a ultimately couple of feet shorter. However getting hold of apple trees on M9...
Source(s): m9 m26 rootstock apple tree: https://biturl.im/pgA0Q - Anonymous7 years ago
You are thinking of M27 rootstock which is extremely dwarfing only growing to 5-6 ft and producing 15-25lbs fruit after 2-3 years. Both M9 and M26 will produce after 3-4 years, reaching maximum capacity at 5-6 years. The approximate yield from M9 which grows 8-10ft is 35-45lb, whereas M26 which grows from 10-12ft highs 65-75lbs. Yield wise the M26 is the better but how about size overall?
M9 very dwarfing produces a bush about the size of a small room when mature. It is popular for dwarf bushes, dwarf pyramids, cordons and small espaliers. It is a good choice for a small garden with fairly good soil. Permanent staking is necessary as is routine feeding and watering.
M26 dwarfing produces an effect similar to M9. It is, however, more vigorous and a little stronger.it's about 2ft higher and wider and only needs staking for 5 years. It's a good stock for average soil conditions where compact growth is required. Unless you have a very small garden this is the best rootstock to go for. It gives nearly twice the yield and needs much less care. Don't forget you can also give it some pruning in the winter months. If you are still concerned talk to your local fruit nursery who will give advice for your area.
Source(s): "The Fruit Expert" Dr. D. G. Hessayon - 5 years ago
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