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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 a certain degree of dwarfing characteristics and a specific length. This method is widely used in orchard cultivation 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 trees with dwarfing interstocks. During field visits to new orchards in Huangling, Ganxian, Tongchuan, and Weinan, the author observed several common issues with these dwarfing interstock plants.
First, there are several problems related to planting practices.
1. Improper site selection: Over 90% of fruit growers in Fengyuan Town, Linfen District, in southern Shaanxi Province, planted their 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 difficulty in management. Additionally, the strong root systems of wheat compete for water, which hinders the growth of young apple trees and reduces their survival rate. Planting in old orchards also results in poor light and air circulation, making it harder for the young seedlings to thrive.
2. Incorrect planting depth: Approximately 80% of fruit growers in Weinan and Luan County tend to plant the dwarfing interstock too deep or leave it partially exposed. When the interstock is buried more than 35 cm deep, the roots grow far from the surface, which limits their development and extends the seedling period. On the other hand, shallow planting or complete exposure can hinder canopy formation and affect long-term productivity and yield stability.
3. Delayed intercropping after planting: Many growers do not intercrop in time after planting, leading to poor ventilation and higher ambient temperatures. If the soil is not dried properly, exposed tissues may increase transpiration and evaporation, slowing down the growth of the seedlings and extending the seedling period, which negatively affects survival and canopy formation.
To address these issues, the following countermeasures are recommended:
1. Choose an appropriate planting site: The site should be convenient for transportation, have good irrigation facilities, and avoid areas where fruit trees have been grown in the past five years. It is best to use land primarily for grain cultivation before planting apple trees.
2. Implement a reasonable intercropping model: For the first two years after planting, some crops can be intercropped between the fruit trees. This not only increases income but also improves orchard management. However, it's important to: (1) keep intercropped crops at least 60 cm away from the fruit trees, with a planting belt of at least 150 cm; (2) avoid crops with deep and extensive root systems like wheat, corn, or sorghum; instead, choose legumes or crops that improve soil fertility; (3) avoid long-term or perennial crops that interfere with orchard management.
3. Ensure proper planting depth and technique: The dwarfing interstock should be planted 10 cm above the ground level. When planting in pits, backfill carefully and allow time for the soil to settle. Pits should be slightly higher than required to prevent sinking after watering. When planting in small holes, ensure the soil is compacted well to avoid settling.
4. Timely drying after planting: Drying is crucial for promoting germination, shortening the seedling period, and increasing survival rates. The drying height should be around 120–130 cm, depending on the seedling size. It should be done above the full shoots to ensure quick germination and better growth.