How to Graft Apple Tree Rootstock

This page aims to give you some helpful resources about grafting apple tree rootstock. We cover where you can buy the rootstock, when is the best time of the year to do it. We also list some resources which describe the various methods of grafting apple tree rootstocks. If you want an overview of the rootstock types then click here first and then come back.

First, unlike any of the other subjects in this website, we have not actually grafted apple tree rootstock. But we have received a lot of queries about this subject. So treat this page as a starter which should help you with some of the common queries. Below we quote a typical email we receive about grafting and response we provided.

QUESTION
Can you let me know where I can obtain some M25 rootstock. I have an old farm orchard (over 100 years old) where 10 of the trees are currently ok but 10 others have fallen over but are still producing. I would like to graft some pieces of the original trees onto a new root, grow them on and replace the existing trees in before it is too late.

Can you let me know:

1. Where I can obtain some M25 rootstock
2. How much this is likely to cost
3. If this is the right time of year to think about tree grafting

Please help!!

Martin

ANSWER
Hi Martin,

I've never done grafting but here is a summary of what the RHS says about the timing.

There are a three commonly used forms of grafting apple trees and the timing depends on which method you use.

Chip budding and T budding grafting should occur any time from mid July to early September when the trees are in full growth.

Whip and tongue grafting should occur when the trees are dormant, January to early March are best.

The RHS page dealing with this subject can be found here.

As for where to buy M25 rootstock, the only one I could find is RV Roger. They cost £2 per rootstock. You need to contact them first to order them, because the rootstocks themselves need to be dug up off-site.

Whilst searching I did note that you can buy the commoner M26 and MM106 rootstocks plus the grafting knife and tape from Blackmoor's, all available to order online.

Good luck.

Dave

If your company sells apple tree rootstock then let us know and we will include a link to you here.