How to create a 3-in-1 apple tree?

Hello All,

I am trying to understand exactly how 3-in-1 apple trees are propagated for sale to public. That is, rootstock production, interstem and scion grafting.

So far, my understanding is that rootstocks (M9, M26, M27?) would be propagated via mound layering. Interstems and scions would be taken as cuttings. The interstem would be grafted using whip and tongue method to the rootstock....Then

I am not quite sure about how the interstem is used with the scions. Would the scions be T budded into the interstem?

I can't find any good internet resources on this.

Thanks for any and all help.

Laura Ralph
www.aliveandwellorganic.ca

 

A 3-in-1 apple tree doesn't need an interstem unless one of the varieties is incompatible with the rootstock. I've grafted 2 or 3 additional varieties onto apple trees that I've bought and had good success. Any form of grafting or budding can be used to create the 3-in-1 apple tree.

 

Thanks. I am doing an assignment that asks me to describe how a nursery would do it. It says to discuss rootstock, interstem, and scions...