Apple tree "Glory to the Pobeditelyam": characteristics and description

"Slava Pobeditelyam" is a time-tested variety. Gardeners appreciate it for its superb flavor and abundant yield. Although it was bred in Ukraine in 1928, it remains popular. In 1954, it spread throughout the Soviet Union. It can still be found in many garden plots in Russia, the Caucasus, Ukraine, and Belarus.

The Secret of Apple Names

Apples of this variety ripen quite late, after other apple trees have already produced their harvest. At this point, Slava, a true winner, begins to bear fruit, replacing the other trees.

External features

The apple tree is characterized by a broad, pyramidal crown and tall growth. Over time, the crown shape changes, becoming round or oval. The light green, rounded leaves have a yellowish tint. The brown branches of young trees grow upward. The apple tree's flowers are pink, and the buds are bright red. The smooth fruits range from medium to large in size. The maximum weight of an individual fruit is 180 g. Ripe fruits are light green with red flecks. The light-colored flesh of the apples is juicy, with a sweet and tart flavor. The apple tree is especially impressive during the spring bloom period. The delicate aroma of the flowers fills the orchard.

Positive characteristics

"Slava" is disease-resistant and easily tolerates harsh winters, making it suitable for cultivation in both southern and northern regions. The variety boasts high yields. A 14-year-old apple tree can produce up to 70 kg of apples per season. Breeders consider "Slava" a reliable variety. The firm fruit can be safely transported over long distances. The apples also attract gardeners with their appetizing appearance. The favorable ripening time is also crucial. This is the period when other apple trees no longer bear fruit. Therefore, you can enjoy sweet fruits all autumn long.

Negative aspects of the variety

The apple tree does not tolerate drought well, so it does not grow in southern regions. However, with regular watering, this can be remedied. The tree's crown quickly becomes dense, requiring constant pruning of excess branches. Ripe fruits do not hang on the tree for long and often fall off, which can affect their integrity and shelf life. Slava Pobeditelyam apples have a relatively short shelf life: up to 1.5 months in the cellar and a maximum of 4 months in the refrigerator. The apple tree is naturally sterile, so it requires a pollinator.

Rules for planting apple trees

To ensure a bountiful harvest, it's important to follow basic planting guidelines, choose the right location, and consider the soil composition. Apple trees produce better fruit in sunny areas, so avoid trying to fill shady spots with them. The color of the fruit depends on the amount of light. Apple trees grown in the shade produce fruit with a slight pinkish blush, while apples exposed to full sunlight are always bright red. Furthermore, shade affects the sweetness of the fruit and the yield, naturally reducing it. Avoid particularly damp areas, as apple trees do not tolerate excess water. The bottom of the planting hole can be lined with drainage material to absorb moisture. The soil should have a neutral pH, preferably loamy or sandy loam.

Seedlings are usually rooted in spring or fall. Certain requirements apply to them: the root system must be developed, and the bark must be undamaged. The seedling must be at least 1.5 m tall and must have branches. If planting in the fall, remove all leaves from the branches. A hole for planting is prepared a week in advance. Dig a hole 1 m deep and 70 cm wide. The depth of the hole depends on the development of the root system. Fill the bottom of the hole with fertile soil mixed with ash and humus. Place the seedling in the center, being careful not to damage the roots. Cover with soil. If the plant was previously planted in a container, do not shake the soil off; plant it with the contents of the container. This will help the apple tree take root better. Lightly compact the soil and water it (about 1 bucket of water will be needed). Drive a stake nearby to support the plant. If desired, the soil can be mulched with straw or sawdust. If you have more than one tree, space the seedlings 4 meters apart.

Proper care

Saplings up to three years old require essential care. This includes watering, loosening the soil, weeding, and fertilizing. In the first year, an apple tree requires 30-40 liters of water. In hot weather, the amount of water is increased. Watering is required during periods such as ovary formation, flowering, and a few days before fruit set. In August, this process is completed to allow the apple tree to acclimate before the winter cold sets in. Fertilizing is necessary to ensure juicy fruit.

In the first year after planting, apply nitrogen fertilizer (early May). Manure and compost are used as organic fertilizer. After flowering, the apple tree is generously sprayed. Periodically, it is recommended to loosen the soil around the trunk, especially after watering. Young apple trees need to be shaped correctly. A proper crown will ensure abundant fruit production and will withstand winter frosts. Pruning is performed not only on young trees but also on older ones. The first pruning is performed in the tree's second year. Monitor the process carefully to avoid removing fruiting branches. Remove vertical shoots immediately, as they will only slow the plant's growth.

Reproduction of the variety

Gardeners know four ways to obtain new plants. Let's look at each one.

Seeds

Typically, this is the most painstaking method of apple tree propagation. Only breeders practice this method, and it often yields insignificant results.

Layering

This propagation method requires a young tree planted at an angle. In spring, the newly grown branches, those that will touch the ground, are secured to the ground or dug in immediately. After a year, the newly grown shoots are cut off and planted in their permanent location.

Cuttings

This is a simpler method. The cuttings are cut to approximately 20 cm lengths, all plant material is removed from the bottom, and any foliage is cleared away. There's no need to cover the cuttings with soil. Perhaps 2-3 cm is sufficient. Water the cuttings periodically. Over the summer, they should grow into true seedlings, which are then transplanted to their permanent location.

With eyes

A T-shaped cut is made in the plant's bark. The bark is separated in different directions. A section of a mature tree containing a bud and a small petiole is placed into the hole. The peeled back bark is returned to its original position and pressed firmly. For security, the bark is tied to the tree. The buds remain open. This procedure is performed on a clear, windless day. After 14 days, the cut is opened and the results are observed. The experiment is successful if the bud is green.

Possible pests and diseases

Apple trees are susceptible to diseases such as scab, fruit rot, powdery mildew, and cytosporosis. Powdery mildew can be identified by a white coating on the leaves that gradually turns brown. To combat the disease, garden trees are sprayed with a solution of copper sulfate or copper oxychloride. However, treatment begins either before flowering or after harvest. Apple tree bark is susceptible to cytosporosis. It dries out unnoticed and falls off. Hom can help combat this scourge. Fruit rot is easily recognized by the dark brown spots that cover the fruit. Scab is characterized by leaf curling and leaf drop. Fruit also suffers, becoming covered in black spots. Use Topaz to eliminate scab.

The most common pests are leafhoppers, red spider mites, and codling moths. Octamethyl and Zolon are used to control them. Carefully read the instructions and follow the instructions. When disinfecting, ensure proper equipment and respiratory and skin protection.

Reviews from experienced gardeners

Irina, 34 years old, Novozybkov

The variety yielded us a consistently rich harvest. The apple tree overwintered well, which I hadn't really counted on. Slava's branches grow quickly, so we pruned them frequently. The summer was hot, and the tree began to dry out. We had to water it generously, and the tree recovered. We used the apples for puree and compotes for the winter.

Boris, 57 years old, Kamenskovo

We've had an apple orchard for several decades, a tradition passed down from generation to generation. We have five Slava Pobeditelnym apple trees. We always plant pollinating varieties nearby. The apples are delicious, although they don't store for very long. To prevent infection of all the trees, I regularly spray them in early spring.

Vladislava, 54 years old, Maloyaroslavets

I bought Slava apples at a nursery on the recommendation of a friend. My grandchildren love juice, so I decided to treat them to a natural, chemical-free drink. The garden is so beautiful when the apple trees begin to bloom. Our apples ripen by the end of August. I love this variety for its smooth skin, velvety flesh, and juiciness. I recommend everyone try the Slava Pobeditelyam apples at least once.