How to Use Crabapple for Rootstock

Several varieties of crabapple (Malus spp) are routinely used as rootstock to enhance both apple trees and other crapapple cultivars. Since crabapple rootstocks like M. sylvestris can increase resistance to apple diseases, such as crown gall and hairy root, they are often used when propagating apple trees. Crabapple rootstock is also used to dwarf both apples and ornamental crabapples. When working with young rootstocks, it is generally best to perform a whip graft with scions of a similar size.

Scion wood
Rootstock
Sharp knife
Grafting tape
Grafting wax

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare the rootstock and scion by making a 1-1/2-inch angular cut in each. Start the cut in the middle of each section and work outward so that the cuts will fit together.
- 2
  Match the scion to the rootstock, ensuring that at least one side of the rootstock's inner bark is touching the cut side of the scion. Trim away any overlap.
- 3
  Wrap the area where the scion and the rootstock join, using grafting tape. Coat the tape with grafting wax to ensure a good seal. Water the rootstock well after the graft has been made. Remove the grafting tape once the scion starts to grow.

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