For intensive sweet cherry growing in temperate conditions, the GiSelA® rootstocks are the first successful and economically important dwarfing rootstocks. Production, marketing and rights for these rootstocks, which originate from a breeding program at the university of Giessen (Germany), are assigned to CDB (Consortium Deutscher Baumschulen), an association of German nurseries.

 

According to soil, cultivar and cultivation intensity, the best adapted variety can be selected. In-vitro propagation produces homogenous plant material of high quality with initial strong growth, which is reduced to the clone-specific level with the beginning of cropping.

 

A definite advantage of the GiSelA®s is the early beginning of cropping. First yields from the second leaf on and full crop from the 4th year on guarantee a quick return of the invested capital. The high productivity is maintained over many years. With adapted cultural management methods, fruit size is not negatively influenced.

 

Especially positive is the high adaptability of the GiSelA®s. In comprehensive trials and commercial orchards, no or only few tree losses occurred.

Other beneficial traits of all 6 clones are flat branching and broad growth habit, no suckering tendency, excellent winter hardiness, tolerance to pollen born viruses, and very good compatibility (healthy budwood provided).