I want to plant Stella and Montmorency cherry trees of a semi-dwarf size. However, I have heavy soil (in Virginia) and would like to find these varieties on a rootstock compatible with my soil. So far, I have only found them on Mahaleb which I hear is not suitable for such soil. I would appreciate any advice on the problem.

Out here with our rain and heavy soils, I believe most have traditionally planted on colt rootstock. Many have been using the Gisela series from Germany and I have found those to work well also. I would also put gravel, rock and old wood in the hole when planting to speed drainage.
John S
PDX OR