INFLUENCE OF THE INTERSTEM ON VIGOUR YIELD AND PRODUCTIVE EFFICIENCY OF THREE APPLE CULTIVARS

Abstract

Interstems in apples (Malus domestica) are scarcely used in mexican apple orchards; however, they could represent one option to solve the problems associated with adverse soil conditions, vigor, scion compatibility, pests, diseases, etc. The present study was conducted in Bachíniva, Chih. from 1979 to 1989, to determine the best cultivar/interstem combination. The list of variables studied were yield (kg/tree), efficiency (kg of fruit per cross seccion trunk area) and tree size in order to estímate yield (t/ha) in three cultivars: Starkrimson (S), Spur Golden Delicious (SGD) and Spur Red Rome Beauty (SRRB) with four interstems (MM.111, MM.106, M.7 and M.26). Yields (t/ha) were higher than 20. tlha for all treatments but were similar among interstems and cultivars. Interstem MM.111 and MM.106 showed the largest canopy and yield (kg/tree), MM.106 being the most efficient. The cultivars vigor was similar, but SGD and SRRB were more efficient, while Starkrimson was the cultivar most altemant.