Application of a rooting hormone to encourage early scion root initiation may eventually result in elimination of a need for the bud union between the Old Home pear trunk and the original rootstock and will establish the trees on a more vigorous root system, according to tests detailed in this progress report of field research by Extension Service staff members.

The Kay Dix ranch, Walnut Grove, cooperated by allowing use of their orchard, and Chemagro Corp. supplied the Dexon used in the tests.