Performance of 'Imperial Gala' and 'Mishima Fuji' apples on different rootstocks

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate rootstock effect on the performance of the Imperial Gala and Mishima Fuji apple (Malus domestica) cultivars. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with four replicates. The CG.969, CG.874, CG.210, CG.56, CG.008, JM.2, and JM.7 rootstocks were used, besides the combination of Marubakaido with the M.9 interstock (Marubakaido/M.9). The assessed parameters were: production per tree, yield, number of fruit per tree, fruit weight, trunk cross-sectional area, soluble solids, fruit firmness, and starch‑iodine index. Both cultivars showed greater yield when grafted onto the Marubakaido/M.9, JM.2, CG.008, CG.874, CG.210, and CG.56 rootstocks. In addition, the CG.008, CG.874, CG.210, and CG.56 rootstocks decrease tree vigor, but without reducing yield. Soluble solids content in fruit is greater when less vigorous rootstocks are used.