A type of rootstock (now chiefly of apple) that will not dwarf or restrict the final size of the tree which is grafted on to it, and is typically grown from seed.
Origin
Mid 17th century; earliest use found in John Evelyn (1620–1706), diarist and writer. After French arbre sur franc.
Definition of free stock in US English:
free stock
noun
Horticulture
A type of rootstock (now chiefly of apple) that will not dwarf or restrict the final size of the tree which is grafted on to it, and is typically grown from seed.
Origin
Mid 17th century; earliest use found in John Evelyn (1620–1706), diarist and writer. After French arbre sur franc.