Meaning of Rootstock

Question

What is the meaning of rootstock?

Answer 1

Rootstock is the root system onto which another plant has been grafted. Often the rootstock has a more vigorous growth habit than the grafted part. This leads to higher production (citrus), weeping habit (weepinng cherries and maples), shorter trees (patio fruit trees), and stronger stems and larger blooms (hybrid tea roses). Sometimes the graft cannot make its own roots to support growth, as in some of the novelty grafted cactus.