Description
Malus domestica M26 is a versatile apple rootstock that offers an excellent balance between vigour and compactness. Developed in 1929 by the East Malling Research Station in England, this rootstock is a cross between M16 and M9. Its combination of productivity, early fruit set and adaptability makes M26 a popular choice for both commercial and home cultivation worldwide.
Key features:
Vigor: Considered a dwarf rootstock, but more vigorous than M9, ideal for apple varieties that require a little more vigor.
Fruit set: Very productive and precarious, with an early and consistent yield.
Support: Requires staking in the early years.
Cultivation forms: Suitable as a shrub, small espalier forms and even container cultivation.
Advantages:
Adaptability: Excellent for several apple varieties, especially spur types.
Widely applicable: Suitable for commercial orchards and smaller gardens.
Productivity: High yield with an early fruiting character.
Cultivation instructions:
Planting distance: Depends on cultivation method, but usually closer than standard rootstocks.
Soil requirements: Grows well in fertile and well-drained soils. Avoid overly wet or poorly drained soils due to susceptibility to crown fungus.
Support: Permanent support may be necessary during heavy fruiting.
NB:
Health: Susceptible to crown rot and fireblight, making good preventative measures essential.
Burrknots: Tendency to form burrknots, which requires extra attention in pruning and maintenance.
Conclusion:
The Malus domestica M26 offers an excellent combination of vigour, productivity and versatility. This rootstock is an ideal choice for gardeners and nurserymen looking for a compact but powerful solution for their apple cultivation.
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