Choice Of Rootstock
Choice of rootstock is important for your site and needs. Varieties grafted onto different rootstocks will eventually result in trees of different height, spread and overall vigour.
Most apple trees are grafted on MM106, which is recommended as the best all-rounder for most soils and situations. If you require varieties on either a very dwarf or very vigorous rootstock, then please enquire as these are sometimes available or can be prepared to order.
Rootstock types - eventual height - planting distance
Rootstock types - eventual height - planting distance
M27 (very dwarf) - 5 to 6 ft high - plant 6ft apart
M9 (dwarf) - 8 to10 ft high - plant 10ft apart
MM106 (semi-dwarf) - 12 to 14 ft high - plant 15ft apart
M111 (vigorous) - 14 to 20 ft high - plant 20ft apart
M25 (very vigorous) - 20 to 30 ft high - plant 25ft apart
Rootstocks for growing fruit trees in large pots and tubs
Apples - M27 , M9 and MM106 are all suitable
Pears - Quince C is best suited as it produces slightly smaller trees
Plums - Pixy produces a smaller, more compact tree but generally plums can be more tricky in containers
Peaches - St Julian