Apple tree rootstock named `G.41`

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of apple tree rootstock Malus domestica×Malus robusta hybrid ‘G.41’ is described herein. The new variety is a dwarfing rootstock that is resistant to fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) and crown rot (Phytophthora cactorum). The ‘G.41’ rootstock is useful in that it can be propagated clonally and used as a rootstock or root system for apple trees as well as for interstems of apple trees.

Description

[0001]Genus and species: Malus domestica×Malus robusta hybrid.[0002]Variety denomination: ‘G.41’.BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION[0003]The invention described here is a new variety of apple tree rootstock, Malus domestica×Malus robusta hybrid, hereinafter referred to as ‘G.41’. ‘G.41’ originated from a planned cross in 1975 in Geneva, N.Y. The new variety is a dwarfing rootstock that is resistant to fire blight and crown rot. It is precocious and highly productive, and can be used as a rootstock as well as for interstems of apple trees.[0004]In the spring of 1975, pollen from a Malus robusta ‘Robusta 5’ apple tree was applied to emasculated flowers of a Malus domestica ‘Malling 27’ apple tree at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station (“NYSAES”), Cornell University, Geneva, N.Y. In the fall of 1975, approximately 500 seeds resulting from this pollination were extracted from mature fruit derived from this cross. In the winter of 1975-76, the seeds were stratified an...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

‘Malling 27’ plants produce no spines, are poorly anchored, are very sensitive to winter cold, and drought, and are susceptible to the woolly apple aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum) and to fire blight (Erwinia amylovora).

‘Robusta 5’ does not induce precocity to the scion and is not highly yield efficient.