ABSTRACT
Specification of rootstocks is based on a mix of age, cultural methods and dimensions. These need to be combined to provide meaningful information for their use and application in grafting. For more demanding species and certain grafting systems, better results are obtained using top-quality rootstocks delivered at the appropriate time. Pre-delivery contractual agreements with the supplier, coupled with good communication and liaison, should ensure a reliable supply. Plants should be transported in covered vehicles and protected from direct sunlight. In cold weather, suitable protective material should be used to prevent frost damage to the root system. Rootstocks to be used for apical grafts are normally headed back to between 50–100mm the root system; this will be determined by rootstock and scion diameters and grafting method. Most plug producers remove the plants from their cells and deliver specific numbers in wrapped bundles.
