Cornell Research Foundation Inc.

Ross E Byers

James N Cummins

Herb S Aldwinckle

The present invention relates to novel propagated apple trees having increased vole resistance and to methods for propagating such trees; and relates in one aspect to an apple tree having a vole-resistant rootstock and having growing thereon a desired apple bearing scion. In a preferred embodiment, the vole-resistant rootstock has a characteristic modifying distinct interstem interposed between the apple bearing scion and the rootstock. In another embodiment of the invention, the stocksystem is a composite stocksystem wherein a portion of the stocksystem is of a variety (seedling or other rootstock) distinct from the vole-resistant stock and wherein the portion of the rootstock above ground and to which the scion or interstem is grafted, comprises the novel vole-resistant stock. The nature of the companion rootstock is not critical and any compatible rootstock such as those already known in the art, for example, from 'Delicious seedlings' can be employed. The systems proposed in the present invention present apple trunk tissue to voles which is unpalatable to them.

Method of producing vole-resistant apple trees and trees produced thereby

An apple tree which is vole-resistant and useful for rootstocks and trunkstocks.

Growing community of inventors

Winchester, VA, United States of America

Ross E Byers