Abstract: 【Objective】 The difference in distribution of relative light intensity and yield and growth condition were studied with six different apple tree shapes and two rootstocks on apple trees in order to understand the suitable tree shapes for apple dwarfing rootstock cultivation in Northwest-loess plateau. 【Method】The structure index of trees, relative radiation, fruit quality and yield were measured by using TES-1332A.【Result】Spindle trees were more vigorous than Y-trellis and V-trellis trees. Tall spindle/M26 was better in distribution of relative light intensity, and the canopy volume ratio of relative light intensity more than 30% was 79.6%, total number of shoot of tall spindle was the most among the six spindle shapes, the yield of saplings was the highest. The relative light intensity within canopy of V-trellis was just lower than Y-trellis and the yield of V-trellis was just lower than tall spindle. The relative light intensity within canopy over 30% of Y-trellis/M26 was 91.8%, but the total number of shoot and output of Y-trellis was lower. The mean fruit mass of Y-trellis, V-trellis, slender spindle and improved spindle was better than that of tall spindle and freedom spindle. The fruit quality of Y-trellis and V-trellis with higher fruit weight, content of soluble sugar and pericarp color saturation was better than those of other tree shapes.【Conclusion】Tall spindle/M26 had the highest yield and V-trellis was the second, the fruit quality of Y-trellis and V-trellis was the best, and tall spindle was the second.V-trellis has a great potential in yield.

Key words: apple , tree shapes , light intercepted ability , yield , fruit quality