Rootstock VP 1

A Reliable Foundation for Stone Fruits

The VP-1 rootstock, developed by the VNIISPK breeding institute, has established itself in commercial fruit growing as a robust solution for establishing intensive cherry and sweet cherry orchards. Choosing this rootstock is driven by the need to minimize risks associated with fungal diseases, which traditionally limit the productivity of stone fruit crops.

Agronomic Advantages and Resistance

The primary task addressed by VP-1 is the creation of a healthy orchard with a rapid transition to the fruiting phase. Key material features include:

• Phytosanitary Resistance: High resistance to moniliosis and coccomycosis reduces the need for intensive fungicide treatments. This is critical for farms striving for eco-friendly produce and reduced pesticide costs.
• Biological Compatibility: The rootstock shows excellent graft union formation with both cherry and sweet cherry cultivars, preventing high mortality rates in nursery operations.
• Adaptability: The rootstock helps control the vigor of the scion, simplifying crown formation and easing harvest operations, making trees more compact and easier to maintain.

Practical Application in the Orchard

VP-1 is chosen for orchard establishment in regions where the risk of coccomycosis epiphytotics is traditionally high. Its use balances the physiological processes of the tree, ensuring stable scion nutrition and the development of generative buds. Orchardists value this rootstock for its strong anchorage in the soil, eliminating the need for complex support systems and significantly lowering initial capital investment per hectare.

When working with VP-1, it is essential to consider that maximum results are achieved by following standard fertilization schedules, as the rootstock is highly responsive to mineral nutrition levels, which directly impacts fruit size and commercial quality.