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Problems and Countermeasures in Planting Dwarf Interstocked Apple Seedlings
Apple dwarfing interstock refers to grafting a high-quality variety onto a rootstock that has specific dwarfing traits and a certain height. This technique is widely used in orchards due to its advantages such as early fruiting, high and stable yields, smaller tree size, and easier management. In recent years, more and more fruit farmers have started planting apple dwarfing interstocks. However, during field visits to new orchards in Huangling, Ganxian, Tongchuan, and Weinan, the author noticed several issues with these plants.
First, there are several problems in the planting process.
1. Improper site selection: Over 90% of fruit growers in Fengyuan Town, Linfen District, southern Shaanxi, planted seedlings in wheat fields. The planting areas were narrow, often less than one meter wide, and many were left without proper planting belts. Some were even planted in old orchards. These conditions lead to poor ventilation and difficult management. Wheat roots are vigorous and compete for water, which hinders the growth of young apple trees and reduces their survival rate. Planting in old orchards also brings challenges like poor light, weak water absorption from existing trees, and increased pests, all of which negatively affect the seedlings' development.
2. Incorrect planting depth: About 80% of fruit growers in Weinan and Luan County plant the dwarfing interstock too deep or not deep enough. Some are completely exposed. When planted too deep (more than 35 cm), the roots struggle to grow, delaying the seedling period and lowering survival rates. On the other hand, shallow planting or full exposure can hinder canopy formation, leading to lower yields and unstable production.
3. Delayed intercropping after planting: After planting in wheat fields, if intercropping is not done in time, the environment becomes hot and poorly ventilated. If the soil isn't dried properly, the exposed tissues increase transpiration, leading to slower growth and extended seedling periods, which is not favorable for survival and canopy formation.
Second, there are several effective measures to address these issues.
1. Choose an appropriate planting site: The location should be convenient for transportation, with good irrigation facilities. It should not be a site where fruit trees were previously grown for at least five years, and it should primarily be used for grain cultivation.
2. Implement a reasonable intercropping model: For the first two years, some crops can be intercropped between the fruit trees. This not only increases income but also helps manage water and fertilizer. Key points include: (1) Interplant crops should be kept away from the fruit trees, ideally 60 cm beyond the canopy's projection. A 150 cm wide planting belt should be reserved. (2) Avoid crops with deep root systems like wheat, corn, or sorghum, as they compete for water. Legumes or soil-enriching crops are better choices. (3) Avoid long-term or perennial crops that may interfere with orchard management. Short-cycle crops like garlic are ideal.
3. Ensure proper planting depth and method: The dwarfing interstock should be planted 10 cm above the ground level. When planting in pits, backfill carefully to prevent sinking after watering. The pit should be slightly higher than needed. For small pits, minimal digging is required, and after planting, the soil should be compacted to avoid settling. When backfilling, the pit should be shaped with a low center and high sides to ensure good water retention around the roots.
4. Proper drying after planting: Drying is crucial for promoting germination, shortening the seedling period, and increasing survival rates. After planting, the seedlings should be dried promptly. The drying height should generally be 120-130 cm, depending on the size of the seedlings. The cut should be made above the full shoots to encourage quick sprouting and faster establishment.