Propagation of apple trees via seed involves germinating a seed obtained from an apple fruit. This method contrasts with clonal propagation techniques such as grafting or budding, which are more commonly employed in commercial apple production. Seed-grown trees exhibit genetic variability, resulting in offspring that may differ significantly from the parent tree in terms of fruit characteristics, disease resistance, and growth habit.
While not the standard method for establishing orchards due to the extended time required for maturation and the unpredictable nature of the resulting fruit, raising apple trees from seed holds value for specific purposes. It allows for the development of novel varieties, provides a basis for rootstock research, and can be a rewarding educational experience for home gardeners interested in understanding plant genetics. Historically, seedling trees were the primary means of apple cultivation before the advent of sophisticated grafting techniques.
