A Study on the influence of MM.106 rootstock on the Vegetative growth and Leaf mineral content of different apple cultivar

Abstract

Effect of MM.106 rootstock on vegetative growth and leaf mineral contents of different apple cultivars (Crispin, Golden delicious, Jonagored and Royal gala) was studied at the Highland Fruits and Vegetables Research Center of Arba Minch University, Gircha, Ethiopia. The research design used was a complete randomized block consisted of four treatments (cultivars) with three replications of 5-tree/ plots. In this trial, total plant height, trunk diameter, leaf area, number of branches and effect of rootstock on the leaf nutrient accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium was measured. The maximum vegetative growth was recorded for Crispin followed by Royal gala while Golden delicious showed least growth. MM.106 rootstock absorption and translocation to the grafted cultivars differs. The highest leaf nitrogen content was recorded for Crispin and the greatest amount of potassium accumulation was found in the leaves of Jonagored cultivar.