Abstract: Disclosed are apple plants or apple plant components that include an isolated polynucleotide free from a selectable marker polynucleotide. Methods of producing such plants are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel propagated apple trees having increased vole resistance and to methods for propagating such trees; and relates in one aspect to an apple tree having a vole-resistant rootstock and having growing thereon a desired apple bearing scion. In a preferred embodiment, the vole-resistant rootstock has a characteristic modifying distinct interstem interposed between the apple bearing scion and the rootstock. In another embodiment of the invention, the stocksystem is a composite stocksystem wherein a portion of the stocksystem is of a variety (seedling or other rootstock) distinct from the vole-resistant stock and wherein the portion of the rootstock above ground and to which the scion or interstem is grafted, comprises the novel vole-resistant stock. The nature of the companion rootstock is not critical and any compatible rootstock such as those already known in the art, for example, from "Delicious seedlings" can be employed.

Abstract: An apple tree which is vole-resistant and useful for rootstocks and trunkstocks.

Abstract: A new and distinct apple cultivar, named `Freedom` which is exceptional for its resistance to apple scab incited by Venturia inaequalis, cedar apple rust incited by Gymnosporangium juniperi virginianae, apple powdery mildew incited by Podosphaera leucotricha, and fire blight incited by Erwinia amylovora, for its high yields of large fruits and for its good quality.