stock, the graft union after tree settling should be 2 inches 

 above ground line. Allow an additional 2 inches at planting 

 for tree settling. 



After planting, the soil should be thoroughly tamped 

 around the roots so they will be in contact with wet soil. It 

 is not necessary to water trees unless it is extremely dry prior 

 to and after planting. 



Opinions differ concerning the planting depth of 3-piece 

 interstem trees. Some suggest that these trees should be 

 planted with the lower graft union 2 inches above ground. 

 Other individuals suggest deeper planting with the top of 

 the interstem 2 inches above the ground. We have tried both 

 methods and have observed that when the rootstock portion 

 is less than 7 inches in length, shallow rooting can be expected 

 when the trees are planted with the lower graft union 2 inches 

 above the ground. The trees may be less vigorous than those 

 planted deeper (the top of the interstem 2 inches above the 

 ground) and frequently require support. 



Four-piece trees can be planted 12 inches or more in depth 

 because the trees of this type may average 20 inches in length 

 between the scion union and the top of the roots. However, 

 the trees should not be planted too deeply to prevent scion 

 rooting. 



Placement of sand or gravel around the tree base after 

 planting will help stabilize the tree. It also helps to keep the 

 area dry and thus reduces the danger of collar rot. Do not re- 

 move soil from around the trunk, place the gravel or sand on 

 top of the soil. (The trees will not scion root in these materi- 

 als.) When the wind causes the trunk to sway, the gravel will 

 trickle down and around the trunk, thus helping to stabilize 

 the tree. Also, this will prevent the formation of an open 



area around the trunk where water will collect and contribute 

 to crown disorders. 



Supporting Trees 



Tree support is now accepted as a standard procedure in 

 apple growing. The need for tree support is dependent on 

 rootstock, cultivar, soil type, and site. For example, all trees 

 on M.9 need support. Delicious on IV1.7 need support whereas 

 Mcintosh on this rootstock is generally well-anchored on 

 deep, well-drained soils. On windy sites, it may be advan- 

 tageous to provide at least temporary support for all trees 

 on M.26 and M.7 rootstocks. Support methods mclude: 

 (a) temporary basal support which is practiced so that the 

 tree can establish a strong lateral root system; (b) permanent 

 support by posts; and (c) permanent support by a trellis. 



Temporary support. This can be provided with a 3-foot long 

 hardwood stake driven 2 feet into the ground next to the 

 trunk at planting time. Plastic ties, nylon ties or wire can be 

 used to fasten the tree to the post. When wire is used, the 

 wire around the tree should be covered by a section of inner 

 tube, a section of plastic hose, or cloth to prevent tree injury. 

 Temporary support may be necessary for the first 5 or 6 

 growing seasons. 



Permanent post. Pentachlorophenol-treated (penta-treated) 

 or creosote-treated posts are used for trees on l\/l.9 root- 

 stocks. These should be allowed to weather for a year 

 before use because of possible injury to the trees by the 

 creosote or penta. The posts should be 8 to 8/4 feet in 

 length, at least 2 to 2y2 inches in diameter at the base, and 

 set V/2 to 2 feet in the ground (Fig. 4). Soon after planting, 



Fig. 4. A planting of trees on M.9 rootstocks after 3 growing seasons. The trees are individually supported by an 8-foot post 

 set 2 feet in the ground. 



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