Grafted fruit trees have the potential to grow taller, just like any other tree. However, whether or not a grafted fruit tree will grow taller depends on various factors such as the rootstock used, pruning practices, and environmental conditions.
When a fruit tree is grafted, it means that the desired variety or cultivar is attached to a different rootstock. The rootstock is usually chosen for its specific characteristics, such as disease resistance, adaptability to certain soil types, or dwarfing properties. Dwarfing rootstocks are commonly used for fruit trees because they limit the overall size of the tree, making it more manageable for cultivation and harvesting.
If a grafted fruit tree is not properly pruned or maintained, it can certainly grow taller over time. The presence of lower branches, such as large holes or rotted broken stubs, can indicate that the tree has not been pruned for many years. Without regular pruning, the tree can continue to grow taller as it allocates more energy to vertical growth.
I have personally encountered grafted fruit trees that were left unpruned for several years, resulting in their significant increase in height. In one particular instance, I came across an older apple tree that had obvious signs of grafting, such as a noticeable union between the scion and rootstock. However, the tree had not been pruned for a long time, and its branches were reaching far beyond a typical apple tree height.
Interestingly, in some cases, grafted fruit trees can also exhibit a phenomenon known as “sucker growth.” Suckers are shoots that emerge from the rootstock below the graft union. These suckers, if left unchecked, can grow taller than the desired scion variety and take over the tree. This can result in a tree that is taller than anticipated.
Grafted fruit trees have the potential to grow taller if they are not properly pruned and maintained. The use of dwarfing rootstocks can help control the size of the tree, but without regular pruning, the tree may continue to grow taller over time. Additionally, the presence of suckers from the rootstock can also contribute to increased height. It is important to consider these factors and implement appropriate pruning techniques to manage the height of grafted fruit trees.
