Exposing the truth about standard versus dwarf fruit tree rootstock

Always read the fine print before buying dwarfs which i think most people are set on doing. Many think they planted a dwarf and planted ohxf rootstocks which are really not much more dwarfing than callery. Think what 70-90% of size really means. Using Cotoneaster might be the best choice for true dwarfs that are also cold hardy Dew Drop Pear - #23 by northof53

https://treefruit.wsu.edu/web-article/pear-rootstocks/

“Pear varieties growing on OHxF or any Bartlett seedling rootstock tend to be large, non-porous trees. In order to get trees that are more suited to high-density plantings, rootstocks with dwarfing traits and precocity need to be used. In many parts of the world, Quince selections are used as rootstocks. This combination will result in dwarfed growth and precocity. However, Quince is not compatible as a rootstock for many varieties of pear such as Bartlett, Bosc, Forelle, Packham, Triumph, Winter Nellis and Eldorado. For these varieties, the use of an interstock (intermediate graft section) must be used. Another problem with using Quince is that most varieties are not winter hardy making it a poor choice for the Pacific Northwest.”

I’m not suggesting interstems cannot be used to do whatever you want The easiest pears to graft - pear interstems - #3 by clarkinks . Work smarter not harder and you will be successful as an orchardist. Some wont listen to a word i said because they have their mind made up. Everyone has to make their own choices but i strongly encourage everyone to read and consider what i said above. That is not to say to not plant a dwarf orchard. In my area if a person wants to fence acres off from deer, rabbits, racoon etc. It is their prerogative.

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