NC-140: Buckeye Gala Apple Rootstock Trial

Cider apple – Porter’s Perfection scion

This study, planted in spring 2023, is to test different rootstocks on the cider apple scion, Porter’s Perfection. Many of the rootstocks are new from the Geneva breeding program at Cornell. The goal is to see productivity, vigor of trees, health, juice quality, fermentation quality, and taste profiles. Rootstocks: G.11, G.202, G.210, G.21,3 G.41, G.4004, G.890, G.969.

Buckeye Gala

The goal is to assess different rootstock effectiveness in our region with Buckeye Gala as the scion. Planted in spring 2019. Rootstocks: G.41, G.11, G.969, G.4814, Bud 10, M.9 T337, M.26, IFO#2.

Collaborating Researchers: Dr. David Sterle, Pomologist, WCRC-Orchard Mesa

In 2024: Continuing trunk measurements and assessing survival. Planting perennial cover crop of legume/grass mix into Cider trial. Yield and fruit quality measurements for Buckeye Gala.

Outcomes: Knowledge of productive apple rootstocks for the North Fork Valley. Annual reports and updates to continue grower communications and future rootstock trial planning.