Zhigulevskaya apple tree: growing and care features

The Zhigulevskaya apple tree is a striking example of an autumn variety. It was developed by Russian breeders, taking into account the Russian climate, which is common in the central part of the country.

The main purpose of the apple tree is cultivation and breeding in orchards, as well as industrial cultivation.

Characteristics and description of the variety

The tree grows rapidly, reaching a height of 5-7 meters after just a few years of cultivation. The crown is spherical, not very dense, and has few branches. Shoot production is moderate. The leaves that emerge from the branches are intensely green, with a slightly pointed tip.

The fruits ripen towards the end of the autumn season. The apples weigh between 100 and 200 grams and are round and regular in shape. The apple's appearance is quite attractive, which is why the Zhiguli apple tree is often grown for sale. The apple has a delicate, sweet-tart flesh with a subtle but pleasant aroma. The apple is yellow-green in color and may have a reddish tinge. The apples have excellent shelf life after harvesting, lasting up to 90 days.

Apples are most often eaten fresh. Their versatile flavor makes them ideal for baking fillings, making preserves, marmalades, and jams. Zhiguli apples are also used to make delicious homemade wine and liqueurs.

The Zhigulevsky variety is considered moderately frost-resistant. It can be grown in the central and western regions, but is not suitable for planting in Siberia. The tree's winter hardiness allows it to withstand temperatures as low as -15-20 degrees Celsius.

The apple tree begins bearing fruit in the sixth year of cultivation. The yield is high. Even in the initial stage, it can yield 50-70 kilograms of apples per tree. Subsequently, the yield increases several times.

In addition to its high yield, the variety is notable for its strong immunity. The Zhigulevskaya apple tree is rarely affected by common rots, particularly scab, and is not susceptible to insect attacks. To protect the tree, the leaves and trunk are treated annually in the spring with disinfectants and insect repellent additives.

Zhigulevskaya is known for its characteristics that characterize the variety from a positive side:

• high yield;
• beautiful appearance of apples;
• universal taste;
• suitability for industrial cultivation;
• immunity to scab and other viral diseases.

However, the apple tree has several disadvantages:

• average winter hardiness of the tree;
• late fruiting;
• tall growth of the tree.

Growing and care

Saplings should be planted no later than April. Planting in the fall is also permitted, as this significantly strengthens the tree's immune system. Apple trees prefer fertile, loamy soils. If the soil is very clay-rich, add river sand. This makes the soil porous, and water does not stagnate for long periods. Urea and compost are added before planting. The planting hole should be about one meter deep. Place the sapling in the hole and cover it with soil, shaking the top occasionally to ensure even distribution of the soil.

After planting, the apple tree's root collar should be 3 centimeters above the ground. The seedling is watered and left to establish itself in its new location.

Zhigulevskaya apple trees are pruned immediately after planting. The top of the tree is trimmed and the cut is treated with garden pitch. The following year, the apple tree does not need to be pruned; only old and dry branches, as well as broken shoots, can be trimmed.

Fertilizing apple trees begins in the fourth year of cultivation. Fertilizers are applied a maximum of three times per season. Nitrogen supplements, liquid mullein, or diluted chicken manure are effective. Watering with nitrophoska or sodium humate increases fruiting. Fertilizers should be diluted according to the package instructions; each fertilizer has its own dosage. Avoid overdoing it with fertilizers, as too many nutrients can adversely affect both the quality of the fruit and the tree itself.

Water the apple tree 3-4 times a month with cool water. The soil should not be allowed to dry out. Water the tree at the base, in the morning or evening. During long periods without rain, you can spray the leaves and trunk with a hose or showerhead. During fruiting, reduce watering to avoid spoiling the flavor of the fruit.

Harvesting and storage

When the Zhigulevskaya apple tree reaches peak maturity (in its fifteenth year), a single tree can yield up to 200 kilograms of ripe apples. The harvest ripens by the first ten days of September, or, if the summer has been hot, until late August. The apples are picked while still green and slightly unripe. Full ripeness is reached 2-3 weeks after harvest. The apples hang firmly on the branches and do not fall off on their own.

Fruit will last a long time if properly prepared. Peeled fruit should be placed in a single layer in wooden crates or a ventilated box with holes. The fruit can be wrapped in paper or sprinkled with wood shavings. This prevents moisture from reaching the fruit. The apples are then stored at 4-6°C (41-43°F) for up to 3 months.

To prepare for winter, the soil around the tree's trunk is mulched with humus, peat, or straw. The mulch layer should be at least 2-3 centimeters thick. This is sufficient to ensure the Zhigulevskaya tree survives the winter.

Reviews

The Zhigulevskaya apple tree has received many positive reviews. It is praised for its high yield and the universal flavor of its apples. It is said that even if a few branches freeze over the winter, the tree quickly recovers and remains disease-free. This variety has become a favorite for many gardeners. The fruit has a long shelf life, retaining its flavor and aroma.

Compared to similar apple varieties, Zhigulevskaya is noted for its ease of cultivation in any soil. The variety doesn't require a specific planting site and grows in any area.