Orchard Habit.   A dwarfing rootstock that induces early cropping on young trees. 20-30% of a seedlings growth.  The fruit on scion varieties with M.9 rootstocks are larger and ripen earlier especially when the trees are young. M.9 is adaptable to a wide range of soil types but is reported to be unsuitable for dry, sandy soils. It can tolerate a heavier soil type and wetter soil conditions. M.9 has a brittle root system that breaks easily but rarely suckers. Trees on M.9 rootstocks will require staking or trellising all of their life. Care must be taken when planting that the tree is not planted too shallow. M.9 is very popular in Australia with commercial orchardists & growers.