This horticultural technique involves grafting three different apple varieties onto a single rootstock. The result is a single tree capable of producing multiple types of apples, each with distinct characteristics in terms of taste, texture, and ripening time. For example, a tree might bear fruit from a tart Granny Smith, a sweet Fuji, and a crisp Honeycrisp, all on the same plant.
Such a planting offers several advantages. It is particularly beneficial for those with limited space, such as urban gardeners, as it allows for greater diversity of fruit production within a smaller area. Furthermore, cross-pollination among the different varieties can improve fruit set, potentially leading to a higher overall yield. The practice of grafting different fruit varieties onto a single tree dates back centuries and reflects a long-standing interest in optimizing fruit production and diversity.
