Step 1: Role of rootstocks.
Rootstocks are used in fruit crops like apple to control tree vigor, size, yield, and adaptability.
Dwarfing rootstocks reduce plant size, making orchards easier to manage and more productive.
Step 2: Apple rootstock classification.
- Semi-vigorous rootstocks: M 109, M 12.
- Semi-dwarfing rootstock: M 26.
- Very dwarfing rootstock: M 27, produces the smallest trees, ideal for high-density planting.
Step 3: Analysis of options.
- (1) M 12: Semi-vigorous, not dwarfing.
- (2) M 109: Vigorous type, not dwarfing.
- (3) M 26: Semi-dwarf, not the smallest.
- (4) M 27: Correct, very dwarfing rootstock for apple.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, M 27 is the very dwarfing rootstock of apple.