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Columnar apple trees characteristic of varieties. The best varieties of columnar apple trees

Apple trees are blooming - what a miracle, but not every gardener can take care of them. Apple trees are not resistant to a number of diseases and pests, but the high height of the tree and the spreading crown are often inaccessible for proper care. Therefore, a new type of apple trees with a small bush habit and intensive fruiting is a real find for small summer cottages and private plots. Columnar apple trees are a worthy compromise when deciding to change the design of the site or landscaping, with the laying of “phytowalls” on a discount from apple varieties of different colors.

oegardens

Observation that provided the emergence of a new type of horticultural crops

The appearance of the columnar pome type (apple trees, and later pear trees) is no more than 50 years old. The beginning was observation and healthy curiosity. On one of the old apple trees, the owner noticed a branch that outwardly differed from the rest of the branches of the crown. The branch was distinguished by vertical growth without lateral branches, it was all covered with ringlets and spears. It was a typical spontaneous mutant obtained in natural conditions on the Mackintosh apple tree. The branch was propagated and the original variety was obtained, which was called Vazhak. The victorious procession around the world of the columnar type of apple trees reached Russia and in 1972 for the first time a local type of columns was obtained from crossing the varieties Vazhak and Cinnamon Striped. Currently, the number of varieties has exceeded a hundred, and the area under the gardens for many hundreds of hectares of private cottages and adjacent plots.

Benefits of columnar apple orchards

Possibility of growing in a small area a large list of crop varieties
Complete care.
The main feature is the small size of the habitus of the crown and the root system.
High decorative.
Intensive and fast fruiting (1-2-3 years after landing on a permanent basis),
High taste qualities inherent in ordinary varieties of apple trees.
Convenient harvesting.

artevos

Biological features of varieties of columnar apple trees

A beneficial mutation was caused by a lack of growth hormone, which determined the type of crown and culture habit. Violation contributed to enhanced laying of flower buds (to leave offspring), that is, early return of the crop (for 1-3 years).

The biological feature is the almost complete absence of lateral branching, the formation of a crop on the central shoot (trunk) of a tree, a dwarf type of growth and precocity. With small sizes, apple trees bear fruit constantly, giving significant yields. However, they also have weak points - the root system. It is superficial, underdeveloped, does not hold the aerial part of the culture well, and under the gusts of wind the tree trunk can break. An insufficiently developed root system is not able to provide the plant with a sufficient amount of moisture and nutrients, therefore it needs top dressing and watering, but does not tolerate overfeeding and high humidity. Columnar varieties have an intense type of fruiting, and since the central shoot is involved in its formation, the main part of the fruit formations dies off, starting from the bottom. Fruiting shifts gradually upwards. Having reached the top point, fruiting freezes. The tree ceases to form fruits, although it continues to live until almost 50 years of age.

Varieties of columnar apple trees are characterized by precociousness. Some bloom in the year of planting (Malyukha, Barguzin, Iksha, Moscow Necklace, X-3). But it is not advisable to leave the harvest in the first year. Having given all her strength to the formation of fruits in the first year, she may not lay the harvest the next. The duration of active fruiting in columnar apple trees does not exceed 6-8 years. Most of the varieties are medium-fruited crops that enter into active fruiting by 3-4 years after planting on a permanent basis. Late fruits form a crop for 6 years after planting. When buying seedlings, be sure to ask the seller for an accompanying variety characteristic, which should indicate the main biological characteristics of the variety. Otherwise, you can buy an absolutely unpredictable variety, type and type of plant.

Types and varieties of columnar apple trees

Like ordinary apple trees, columnar habits are divided into several groups:

superdwarfs,
dwarfs,
semi-dwarfs,
medium height,
vigorous.

In home gardening, two types of columnar varieties of apple trees are most acceptable - dwarf and medium-sized.

Dwarf columnar varieties obtained by grafting clonal grafts "with the Co gene" onto dwarf rootstocks. Seedlings grow slowly, but from the first year they are able to form a crop along the entire trunk. In this group, the most common varieties are Currency, Arbat, 003.

Medium height columns obtained artificially by grafting conventional varieties onto superdwarf clonal rootstocks and subsequent formative pruning. Compact trees up to 2.5 m in height are obtained.

The most famous varieties with an artificial columnar shape are Cowberry, Orlinka, Ligol, Vasyugan, Medok, President, Amber Necklace, Moscow Necklace, Bolero, etc.

At the columns, fruit links of the annular type are located along the entire trunk. Ringworms bloom profusely and bear fruit. In addition to the fruits, leaves are formed on the annulus, as a rule, dark green colors and shades. Terminal increments are vertical, short, with a large number of closely spaced internodes. Such varieties are called spur. They are characterized by a compact crown, a weak ability to form shoots, an insignificant height of apple trees within 2.0-3.0 m in height. The most valuable inheritance dependent on the rootstock. Therefore, when buying seedlings, be sure to ask the parent couples.

calgaryplants

For grafting in order to obtain dwarf columnar varieties, two types of rootstock are mainly used:

superdwarf rootstock PB-4 (Paradizka Belorusskaya), which is used in the southern regions;
superdwarf stock Malysh Budagovsky. Rootstock material for grafting in central Russia.

Both types are characterized by increased fragility. Therefore, when planting and caring for, careful and careful handling of seedlings and mature trees is necessary.

When buying stock material for grafting at home, pay attention to the color of the bark of the seedlings. The color of the bark in PB-4 is light green with a yellowish tint. The seedlings of Malysh Budagovsky have an intense purple-red bark. This sign will help distinguish a true superdwarf rootstock when buying.

Rootstocks of ordinary apple trees are not suitable for columns. Vigorous seedlings lose the main sign of crown construction (single-stemmed, without lateral skeletal branches).

Varieties of columnar apple trees by growing regions

Like ordinary apple trees, columnar varieties are subdivided according to their resistance to climatic conditions into frost-resistant and heat-loving.

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the southern regions

For the southern regions, the best varieties of columnar apple trees are Bolero, Yesenia, Trident, Snow White, Tuscan, Sparkle, Garland, Green Noise, Titania, White Eagle, Senator, Ideal. They are quite resistant to cold in the southern climate, but do not tolerate severe frosts.

Varieties belong to late-ripening autumn varieties with good long-term keeping quality of fruits. Fruiting begins from the third year of life. Fruits reach 150-400 g. Slightly conical in shape, round, rounded flattened. According to the color of various colors - from the predominant green to red. 2.0-2.5 meter handsome with a compact crown, the volume of which does not exceed 0.5-0.7 m, they are a true decoration of the garden. Leafy, they retain a high decorative effect throughout the warm period. They are especially elegant in discounts, forming an unusual phytowall that adorns the paths to the house, recreation areas.

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the Central Black Earth and Siberian regions

Every year, varieties of apple trees with an unusual crown and fruiting are moving further north. Life expectancy with active fruiting in these regions does not exceed 6-8-12 years. To the best varieties with good winter hardiness for cultivation in the middle and Siberian regions(from the Moscow region to the Urals) include Vasyugan, Moscow Necklace, Senator, President, Ostankino, Triumph, Currency, Arbat, Medok, Jean, Dialog, Renet Mazherova, Iskorka, Chervonets, Elite, Iksha and others. Of these, the varieties Iksha (-40 ° C), Vasyugan, President, Moscow Necklace are distinguished by exceptional winter hardiness.

Medium-hardy ( for the climatic conditions of the Moscow region) with high taste qualities - varieties of columnar apple trees: Malyukha, Medok, Arbat, Moscow Necklace and others. Interesting varieties Medoc and Renet Mazherova. Medoc has a unique aroma and taste of honey, starts fruiting from the first year of life. Renet Mazherova has the narrowest crown (no more than 40 cm in diameter), small fruits (50 g), which literally strew the trunk in August-September, resembling a fantastic cob of bright yellow color. Juicy aromatic pulp of creamy yellow color leaves a unique aftertaste. It should be noted that all of the above varieties are high-yielding and fast-growing. Apples are characterized by sourness, which gives a piquant flavor to the fruit. The small dimensions of the plants make it possible, even in a small area, to concentrate a significant number of varieties with different ripening periods, quality indicators, fruit size and color.

Alison

To increase the decorativeness of plantings, you can combine several universal varieties of columnar apple trees. Varieties of columns differ in the color of apples, the flowering period, giving a special uniqueness to plantings. So you can plant a rabatka in 1-2 rows of the following varieties: President with light yellow fruits, Ostankino with large red apples, Vasyugan with red-striped ones, Amber necklace with green-yellow fruits and a pale pink blush. Frost-resistant Iksha will decorate a living phytowall with orange apples with a red-striped blush, round-flat in shape, with a fabulous saffron aroma. Separate groups of columns with golden yellow, bright yellow, yellow-green fruits look great (Currency, Dialog, Malyukha).

Columnar apple trees, especially in the early years, require patience and attention. Planting and care, top dressing and pruning have their own characteristics. Therefore, before laying a garden or a separate small plot in the form of several separate groups or a row along the path, you must first draw a planting plan in the garden diary indicating the row spacing and distance in the row, varieties with a brief description of the main features and start purchasing seedlings in the spring.

You can familiarize yourself with the features of planting and caring for columnar orchards in the second part of the article “Features of growing columnar apple trees”. (Currently the material is being prepared)

Part 1. Columnar apple trees - features and best varieties

Columnar apple trees planted along the fence. © oegardens

Observation that provided the emergence of a new type of horticultural crops

Benefits of columnar apple orchards

Possibility of growing in a small area a large list of crop varieties
Complete care.
The main feature is the small size of the habitus of the crown and the root system.
High decorative.
Intensive and fast fruiting (1-2-3 years after landing on a permanent basis),
High taste qualities inherent in ordinary varieties of apple trees.
Convenient harvesting.

The fruits of the columnar apple tree, Sonata variety. © artevos

Biological features of varieties of columnar apple trees

Types and varieties of columnar apple trees

Like ordinary apple trees, columnar habits are divided into several groups:

superdwarfs,
dwarfs,
semi-dwarfs,
medium height,
vigorous.

In home gardening, two types of columnar varieties of apple trees are most acceptable - dwarf and medium-sized.

The most famous varieties with an artificial columnar shape are Cowberry, Orlinka, Ligol, Vasyugan, Medok, President, Amber Necklace, Moscow Necklace, Bolero, etc.

Columnar apple tree. © calgaryplants

For grafting in order to obtain dwarf columnar varieties, two types of rootstock are mainly used:

superdwarf rootstock PB-4 (Paradizka Belorusskaya), which is used in the southern regions;
superdwarf stock Malysh Budagovsky. Rootstock material for grafting in central Russia.

Both types are characterized by increased fragility. Therefore, when planting and caring for, careful and careful handling of seedlings and mature trees is necessary.

Rootstocks of ordinary apple trees are not suitable for columns. Vigorous seedlings lose the main sign of crown construction (single-stemmed, without lateral skeletal branches).

Varieties of columnar apple trees by growing regions

Like ordinary apple trees, columnar varieties are subdivided according to their resistance to climatic conditions into frost-resistant and heat-loving.

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the southern regions

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the Central Black Earth and Siberian regions

Columnar apple trees planted along the fence. © Alison

Part 1. Columnar apple trees - features and best varieties
Part 2. Features of growing columnar apple trees

To be an apple tree in the garden, or not to be? There is no such question. Of course be. And not one. Not so long ago, we were wiser about how to have apple trees, pears, cherries, apricots, plums in a dedicated summer cottage. And, of course, not in one instance.

The apple tree was traditionally allocated a place for 3-4 trees. And the torment began with the choice of varieties. After all, there are excellent varieties of different ripening periods. And I wanted to eat them from summer to winter.

Somehow, amateur gardeners managed to vaccinate and have about 10 varieties. And that was a sign of success.

No one denies the possibility of having many varieties even today with the help of grafting. But the very idea of the garden and apple trees in the garden has changed:

Farmer thinks of a garden quickly bearing fruit. Profitable quickly. After all, the cost of laying an industrial garden is quite impressive. New technologies and varieties make it possible;
amateur gardener still wants to have many good varieties. And somewhere nearby is the desire to have a beautiful garden;
Now many people allow themselves to have not just a plot of 15-20 acres. And estates and a hectare are not so rare. And here the beauty of the site comes to the fore. The eye should be pleased with the variety of plants, the most amazing forms.

And for everyone, a columnar apple tree is a godsend. Not so long ago, little was known about her. Now there is a lot of information. Internet, nurseries, design, planting and care specialists.

general characteristics

And first about the most columnar apple tree. Appeared relatively recently. 1964 is considered to be the year of creation of the first variety of columnar apple tree with the name Vozhak. Appeared as a natural mutation due to the care and interest of the gardener. He didn't pass a strange branch on a perennial Mackintosh tree. Which caught his attention:

Apples placed directly one above the other tightly. But of the same sort;
Strong foliage and lack of lateral branches;
Patience and work led to the breeding of the first grade. An amazing ability to experiment has led to the creation of more than 100 varieties of columnar apple trees;
And our compatriots relatively quickly created dozens of varieties of columnar apple trees capable of rejoicing with crops in difficult climatic conditions. Having high resistance to Russian frosts and diseases. In addition, the taste is not much inferior to traditional apples. But there are other valuable qualities;
And had a hand in it famous Russian scientist and breeder Doctor of Science and Professor Viktor Valeryanovich Kichina. Not only the hand. But also the mind. Modern Michurin. Creator of more than 20 varieties of apple trees. And in terms of breeding raspberries, he has no equal - 25 varieties.

The first columnar apple tree Leader.

Advantages of columnar apple trees:

Small crown forms - up to 3 m high and about 50 cm wide. And count how many of these trees you will plant instead of the vigorous Antonovka with its impressive forms. Many designers no longer imagine a garden without columnar apple trees. Both in plantings and vases;
Very fast fruiting. Starting with 5-7 apples in the second year after planting. And annually 5-15 kg from 4-6 years of age;
Large selection of varieties with high resistance to frost and disease;
Small forms make their care more convenient in processing, pruning, harvesting.

Do not forget about the disadvantages:

Comparative high cost of seedlings;
You won't be able to enjoy stable harvests for long. Only up to 15-16 years of age. Such is their nature;
Forget about moisture and top dressing - you will not get a minimum yield.

Description of varieties and photos

The president

As per maturity early, summer. In late August and early September, the apples are ready for picking. You can save until December;
The height can be up to 3 meters. Semi-dwarf, medium vigor tree. Fruiting in gardens every year 5-7 kg per tree. And even 10 kg. Starting from 5-6 years of age. Solitary trees can also have intermittent harvests;
Medium weight greenish-yellow apples with a pinkish blush from 130 g to 200 g. And there are copies of 250 g each;
Sweet and sour cream-colored juicy pulp with a dessert taste;
High winter hardiness(up to 40 degrees below zero allows you to grow in the gardens of central Russia. Zoned back in 2002. And even in Siberia and the Urals.

The president.

Reviews about the apple tree President:

Konstantin.“Only three years have passed since the President variety was planted. My expectations were justified. There are not many apples compared to ordinary varieties. But he took it as exotic. And yes, there will be more to come. But I was surprised by their ability to survive until December and a pleasant taste. Ate them without waiting for December. And they could also lie down. I didn't taste dessert.

Yuri.“I was looking for a columnar apple tree for our places. They advised the variety President. Not very famous. Thanks for the tip.

Satisfied with dessert taste. And sweets and acids in moderation. Slightly lain down seemed to me tastier. True, the wife prefers our old varieties.

I also like their compactness and ease of maintenance.

Nectar

Who among us does not know the taste of honey? And if we meet it in the names of varieties of fruit plants, then we are waiting for its taste. But honey is still enough. Despite its prices;
Here is the variety of columnar apple trees Medoc remind you of the taste of honey and its shades;
Golden color of apples with a characteristic taste of honey. Collect in September. And something else in August. And even a kilogram is so under 10. But even apples are quite large. More than 250 grams;
And some more TTD - height up to 2.5 m. Apples and with a weight of 250 g. And from a tree - 10 kg.

You can learn more about the Medoc apple tree here.

Reviews about the variety Medoc:

Elena.“Have you ever tried the Medoc variety of apples? Of course, a columnar apple tree. If you haven't tried it, do it. There is honey. Everyone feels it differently. Have you eaten honey? Remember, of course, its taste. Here you will find it when eating Medoc apples. Both when removed from the tree and after storage. Taste is almost unchanged.

Nikolay.“Friends suggested a seedling of the columnar apple tree Medoc. I didn't have to choose. I had no idea about columnar apple trees. We talked about the main. Do not touch the center conductor. And did not touch. Grows and does not bear fruit. Can you cut it somehow? After all, it's been 5 years. And there are no apples. Even flowers in spring. We advise you to wait.”

Natalia.“But I really liked the Medoc variety. Every man to his own taste. So is this variety for me.

Only 10 apples. And this is for the 8th year.

But delicious! And when you look at this little one, you just want to say thank you to her!”

Currency

Winter variety. An indisputable achievement of breeders. He still scab immune with Vf gene. Which allows you to think less about apple tree diseases. Less, but do not forget;
They are visible in the garden. Their green foliage remains on the tree for a very long time. So are the fruits. Removed a little unripe in the first half of October. After all, you have to lie almost all winter;
And the height fluctuates between semi-dwarf and even dwarf. That's why it grows no higher than 2.5 m;
Large apples up to 200 g are very good. C fragrant sweet and juicy white pulp;
Entrepreneurs and farmers have long been interested in it.

Moisture moisture. BUT high groundwater is not suitable for the variety;
Pay attention to timely top dressing;
Doesn't like shading.

Read more about Apple Currency in this article.

Column Currency Reviews:

Oleg.“Currency is Currency. Of course, care cannot be started. It reacts very strongly to the lack of moisture and fertilizing. I have over ten of them. Somehow already developed a system. She is simple. I even want to bring it up to two-three dozen. Not a lot of apples - but tasty. Like not only me. I also use drip irrigation. Appeared not too long ago. But the beauty. And the apples are the same. Large and clean."

Yuri.“The currency lives up to its name. A find for a gardener in Siberia. Outstanding frost resistance. Out of habit, I treated twice a season against diseases. Still treated for pests. However, they have a great view. I'm not talking about apples. They didn't keep it until March. Ate. And they could still lie down. Sweet and aromatic. The whole family loves them. You can even plant a couple of this variety.

Triumph

Who gave such a name, of course, meant a victorious march in all positions. And a lot of it is;
autumn variety with very comfortable fit. Small-sized up to 2 meters high thanks to rootstocks MM-106 and 54-118;
Medium-sized apples weighing about 130-150 grams. They find larger ones up to 200 g. A harvested mature in mid-September. And you need to take care of the use and processing. After all stored for only a month;
BUT the yield is quite good 5-7 kg. This is the starting point for the gardener. After all, proper care will even double it;
A blush of dark red color over the entire surface of the fruit. The honey-sweet dessert taste is memorable. And sourness does not interfere;
To not susceptible to disease grade, immune to scab, frost resistance for the middle lane is average.

You will learn more about the Triumph variety from this article.

Reviews of gardeners about Triumph:

Olesya.“It is rightly said that whatever you call a ship, that’s how it will sail. Here is the Triumph variety. Though not too late. But he has already won love and respect. So far (and this is already 5 years) no treatments for diseases. Would be taller. And there would be more harvest. But look at apples. Handsome. Juice and jams are excellent. And pies. It should be tried, not told. If only we could stay longer…”

Evgeny.“There is no problem with which variety, so this is Triumph. Only pests need to be overcome with preventive treatments. Apples are very juicy and sweet. Didn't even think about recycling. They ate the whole crop. Almost a bucket of 10 liters. If there were no other autumn varieties, I would plant 2-3 more of this variety. No wonder it is considered one of the best autumn. And no worse than ordinary apples.

Malyukha

Very often in nurseries they ask for this autumn variety columnar apple trees of Russian selection:

That's why she was named that. Because of the height of the tree. From nature bonsai;
Already in the first year of spring planting, the most impatient can taste the first apples. From the age of 4 they bring full yields;
It's almost one size greenish-yellow with a pink tint apples;
Apples harvested in September can take your time to use or process. They can wait a couple of months. Almost until December;
And in taste, it competes with the most delicious ordinary apples. Sweet and sour juicy pulp. Feel and smell. They are even called dessert;
Resistance to diseases and frost makes it possible to consider it a zoned variety for central Russia. Not to mention more southerly places. But you need to prepare for the winter in full.

Reviews about Malyukha:

Yaroslav.“I have never seen a tastier apple among the columnar apples. Maybe for now.

Real dessert taste. Very juicy. Try it once and you will never forget the taste. It's like the taste of Antonovka and White filling is unique.

And a very pleasant yellowish flesh. My friends also love them. Already looking for seedlings of this variety in nurseries.

They don't expect to be vaccinated."

Olga.“It is a real pleasure to take care of such a variety as Malyukha. You don't really need a ladder. I believe that if you have 2-3 columnar apple trees, consider planting 5-6 more. You can easily take care of them. Wholesale cook top dressing and processing. Malyukha's apples are worth it to plant 1-2 more. And it's not just my opinion."

Sergey.“Nothing worked for me with the cultivation of a columnar apple tree. I bought a Malyukha variety at the fair. Cared for as taught. And the crown is formed correctly. Already the sixth year has gone after landing. I don't see any flower buds. Familiar gardeners are somehow skeptical about such apple trees. Preference is given to traditional and proven. But I'll still wait."

Amber Necklace

winter variety Russian selection, for which their trademark is high winter hardiness. Grown for such conditions;
apple trees are semi-dwarf and grow up up to 2.5 meters;
Ripe in September for assembly. But you will eat only after a couple of months. After lying down for this time, they acquire a characteristic taste (dessert and sweet) and color (golden with a one-sided blush);
Apples of medium size and weight - 160-180 grams;
The yield of the variety pleases fans of columnar apple trees - up to 15 kg per tree. But they collect up to 20 kg. This is from trees 6-7 years old.

Amber Necklace.

You can learn more about the Amber Necklace apple tree here.

Feedback from the owners of the Amber Necklace:

Tatyana.“What you see in the photo is only a part of the good impressions from this strain. No growing problems. Feeding and watering I do not consider some kind of costly action. This is the norm. But apples with their taste will convince you of the need to grow this variety of columnar apple trees. Or maybe not from one tree. His impressions are the best.”

Michael.“Try to find the best columnar apple variety suitable for growing in our conditions. And not only columnar. But this amber necklace is generally a class! I suffered with large crowns ... And here it is small, neat ... No problems with shelter in the winter. And the fact that there are not many apples is not a problem. Even a small amount of them pleasantly surprises.

Ostankino

Another autumn ripening variety. If you remove apples in September, they can last even until December;
undersized tree with very strong trunk and branches. They are able to withstand abundant harvests. And they are regular from 5-6 years after planting. And 6-9 kg from one tree. And even 16 kg with careful care;
Apples grow almost from the ground. 30-40 cm from its surface;
Even in adverse weather for flowering, the ovary is consistently high;
The fruits are not the same size. Them weight is 100, and 150, and 200 grams;
Very beautiful apples with a brilliant reddish color. Sweet and sour and juicy. Feels like dessert.

Important! Very resistant to disease and frost.

Ostankino.

Read more about the Ostankino apple tree in this article.

Reviews about the Ostankino apple tree:

Oksana.“For four years now, I have been growing the columnar Ostankino apple tree. Subtracted on the Internet and acquired a nursery.

When buying a complete educational program with me. I want to say very helpful. What you read is not everything. Moreover, opinions differ. I

blocks already eat 2 seasons. They just made me happy. First, I bought what I wanted. Apples are big and tasty.

I don't know how long they will keep. Yes, that's not the most important thing."

Stepan.“Until I set up drip irrigation, the yields of columnar apple trees were 4-5 kg. More attention was paid to top dressing. And already under 10 kg is. They'll still grow up. And the dimensions of Ostankino became more impressive. Even without weighing it is visible. So I advise others not to suffer from watering with a hose. And do not torment the trees with cold water. But irrigating with a hose will not be superfluous. 2-3 times per season in the evening.

Moscow necklace

And it was called at first as X2. Although some gardeners still call it that. Maybe not to be confused with the Amber Necklace? Very popular in the Moscow region, in the Urals. And even in Siberia;
Low tree - up to 2 m. But they grow up to 2.5 m. Experts classify it as a dwarf;
Like everyone loves the sun. Light and fertilized soils;
Apples ripen at the end of September. And in some places in early October. Yes and stored for 4 months. And even longer. How to store;
Dark red apples average weight 170-180 grams sweet to taste. But with sourness;
Frost resistance is one of the highest among the columnar;
Yes, and he successfully resists diseases;

Consider! The variety itself is not pollinated. So, plant in the company of other apple trees.

There is also a tendency to form a large number of ovaries. Adjust early (blooming, and small apples).

Moscow necklace.

You will learn more about the Moscow Necklace variety from this article.

Reviews about the grade Moscow necklace:

Alexei.“I did not know that the variety is an individualist. It does not pollinate itself. Took for a change. And now for all the feast for the eyes. Though far from columnar.

I was afraid to cut. They talked about the apical bud. If it disappears, the whole apple tree will disappear. It didn’t disappear ... And the apples are amazing. Even though I know the best.

Friends agree with this. Whom I treat with these apples.

Bogdan.“We always have problems growing apple trees. We did not even hope that this apple tree would bring at least some apples. Wrong. God bless you so wrong! We are not happy with the apple tree. And we advise others. And apples, and their taste. So they can also lie down for a long time. We will see! And I heard that this is one of the best columnar winter varieties.

Summer

As soon as we start listing something, confusion arises. They didn't include it... But it shouldn't be... That's with apples. And not only columnar ... But we dare and call. Early columnar apple trees:

Nectar;
The president;
Chervonets;
Ideal;
Flamingo;
Cheremosh;
Iksha. And many more.

You can also find descriptions of the following varieties on our website:

late summer:
- Scarlet Sails;
- Arbat;
- Vasyugan.
winter:
- Idol;
- Gin;
- Favorite.

Also, columnar varieties are divided by growing regions. You can read more about this in this article.

Useful videos

Watch the video of what the Medoc and President apple trees look like:

Watch the video of what the Arbat apple tree looks like:

Watch the video of what an apple tree looks like Currency:

Watch the video of what the Ostankino apple tree looks like:

Conclusion

Nowhere else have I met admiring reviews about the columnar apple trees of farmers. Or their press services. Did not have time to prepare the text. Or did not grow worthy crops. Or productivity has not reached the planned level?

So let's wait for their positive feedback. Tips and advice on numerous varieties of columnar apple trees. All regions.

I, like every normal (the neighbors consider it not normal) gardener, have always wanted to grow in my garden a lot of things that are not in every garden. I have been testing varieties of columnar apple trees for 20 years. Or are they testing me? You can tell by touch.

We offer you the 7 most productive, disease-resistant and popular with gardeners from different countries varieties of columnar apple trees with very tasty fruits.

Saplings of columnar apple trees appeared on sale relatively recently. But during this time they have already managed to gain wide popularity. These neat trees are ideal for small areas. But this is only one of the advantages.

What are the good columnar varieties of apple trees?

The main advantage of columnar apple trees is their compactness. They grow up to 2.5 m high, and the crown diameter does not exceed 0.5 m. Such trees are an excellent find for plots with a small area, since they can be planted close enough to each other: at a distance of 0.8-1 m.

In addition, columnar apple trees are highly productive: from 7 to 15 kg of fruit are removed from the tree. Another indisputable advantage is the precocity of these trees. Fruiting can begin as early as the first year after planting. The main thing is not to forget to fertilize the soil in a timely manner.

The most popular varieties among gardeners are Currency, Moscow Necklace, Ostankino, Amber Necklace, President, Malyukha, Iksha. Let's talk about them.

Currency

A winter variety of columnar apple trees that bear excellent fruit. Trees are dwarf, with a compact crown, do not require special care, resistant to most diseases. Apples are round, golden in color with a red blush, juicy, sweet and sour taste.

iksha

Autumn variety of columnar apple trees with high yield. Trees are low and compact. The fruits are round, yellowish in color with a striped blush. They taste sweet and sour, very juicy. Apple trees of the Iksha variety are resistant to many diseases and pests.

Malyukha

An autumn variety of columnar apple trees that bear excellent fruit every year. Trees are low, grow up to 1.8 m in height. The fruits are elongated, yellow-green in color with a slight pinkish blush, sweet and sour, with a pleasant aroma. The variety is highly resistant to diseases and pests.

Moscow necklace

Columnar apple trees of this late variety are characterized by high yields. Up to 10 kg of fruits can be removed from one tree. Apple trees of medium height with a dense crown, the fruits are round, dark red, juicy, very sweet. They can be eaten fresh or used for processing: drying, canning, etc.

Ostankino

Autumn variety of columnar apple trees. The wood of these trees is very strong and hard, so the branches can easily withstand a large crop. The fruits are greenish-yellow, almost completely covered with a purple-red blush. Apples of the correct rounded shape.

The president

A late variety of columnar apple trees with a rich harvest. The trees are compact with large fruits. Apples are yellow-white in color, very juicy and sweet. Most often, the fruits of this variety are used to make juices, jams and compotes. Fresh, they make a great addition to any dessert. Well kept.

Amber necklace

A winter variety of columnar apple trees that produce a bountiful harvest. Trees take up little space, their crown is not sprawling. The fruits are large, round, light yellow in color, very juicy and sweet in taste. The variety is considered one of the most resistant to most diseases.

What should be considered when growing columnar apple trees?

Planting columnar apple trees does not require special skills. They are planted like ordinary trees, only much closer to each other (at a distance of no more than 90 cm from each other), since they practically do not grow in width.

The holes are also not very deep. Trees need nutrients, so potash fertilizers (50-80 g) and superphosphate (50-100 g) must be applied to the planting pit. After planting, the trees require abundant watering.

Columnar apple trees are mostly early-growing plants, but this can only be achieved with proper care. They need to be fed and watered regularly. Remember that already in the first year, apple trees produce a huge number of inflorescences, but experienced gardeners advise removing them to help the trees form a strong trunk. But in the second year you can already enjoy a rich harvest.

There is one more nuance in growing columnar apple trees. It consists in the fact that their near-stem circles need to be tinned - this means sown with herbs or cereals, which periodically need to be carefully cut or mowed. This procedure will help to "repel" insect pests from the trees.

Watering columnar apple trees should be regular, preferably drip. If for some reason it is impossible to organize it, then it is recommended to water the trees 2-3 times a week. And 1-2 times a month for apple trees it is worth arranging a kind of “shower”, watering not only the tree, but also the trunk.

It may seem that columnar apple trees require special care. But, believe me, it's worth it, because a rich harvest will undoubtedly be your reward for your work.

Apple trees without ordinary branches, fruiting on the trunk, attract the eye, and many summer residents are eager to plant such a miracle on their site.
Caring for a columnar apple tree is easier- no need to cut and shape much, and it is easier to harvest from a low tree. And how beautiful these apple trees are during flowering! The color of large flowers varies from snow-white to bright red. Like a necklace, they surround the trunk, and it seems that it is blooming.

There are already more than a hundred varieties of columnar apple being tested in different countries. In Russia, Professor V. V. Kichina became a pioneer in the selection of apple columns.
In 1972, columnar apple trees came to Russia in the form of pollen from the Vazhak variety. The selection was successful, and now there are more than 30 domestic varieties in our country.

According to the strength of growth, trees of columnar apple trees are dwarfs, semi-dwarfs and vigorous. In many ways, their height depends on the stock on which the variety is grafted.
At the same time, most varieties of the columnar type are natural semi-dwarfs, and even on vigorous rootstocks during the period of full fruiting, trees do not grow above 3.5 m.

A feature of columnar apple trees is the maximum increase in fruit wood while reducing the vegetative parts of the tree, that is, the branches. There are varieties that do not have them at all (Garland, Kitayka red), and there are others that have many side branches.
However, they differ in their structure from the usual apple tree. If its branches are deflected to the sides of the trunk, forming a spreading crown, in a columnar apple tree, the branches depart from the trunk at an acute angle, as if growing along it, resembling a pyramidal poplar in appearance.

By their nature, columnar varieties of apple trees are able to bear fruit annually for 10-15 years. Then the yield decreases. This happens due to the natural drying of the rings in the lower part of the column. If in ordinary apple trees, as the crown grows, the death of old annelids is compensated by the appearance of new ones, then this does not happen with columns, and the garden needs to be replaced. In addition, the height of the trees by this time often reaches 3-3.5 m, which already negates one of the most important advantages of the column.

Early start of fruiting- another advantage of columnar apple trees. The most early-growing ones please with a harvest already in the year of planting, some varieties of columns give up to 3 kg of fruit in the first year. Their wood is stronger than that of ordinary varieties, and is able to withstand significant loads.

For example, the varieties Valyuta, President, Arbat planted as one-year-olds bear fruit well in the year of planting, and on the 4-5th harvest they already give maximum productivity, up to 16 kg of apples each. Like a little. But on the area occupied by one ordinary apple tree, for example, Antonovka ordinary, you can grow up to 50 columns.
Thus, as calculations show, the yield of a columnar apple tree per unit area is 5-6 times greater than that of Antonovka ordinary, which is characterized by abundant fruiting.

Now let's talk about the quality of apples. In modern varietal standards fruit size should be 65-75 mm in diameter, and the average weight should be 140-160 g.
Varieties Currency, President, Ostankino, Vasyugan meet these requirements. And apple varieties Chervonets, Medok are even higher than the norm, often more than half of them weigh 200-250 g each. Moreover, Malyukha, Ostankino, Currency, better than other columnar apple varieties, did not receive low marks for the taste of fruits of varieties approaching the high requirements of taste standards.

By maturity among the columnar varieties there are varieties of summer, autumn and winter consumption. Although most varieties belong to summer, autumn and early winter. Their apples at a temperature of 15-20 degrees are well stored for 10-45 days after removal. Apples of winter varieties in the cellars remain tasty and juicy until the New Year.

Rootstocks, that is, roots, on which varietal plants are grafted, largely determine the successes and failures of any apple orchard.
Columnar varieties also depend on the properties of the selected rootstock in many respects (tree height, presence of side branches, winter hardiness, etc.). True, which of them is better, the opinions of scientists differed, but it is important for us that most of them are highly winter hardy.
As the winters of the last decade have shown, the winter hardiness of most columnar apple trees is at the level of standard Central Russian varieties. And some endure frosts up to 42 degrees without loss, which exceeds the critical level of many apple varieties common in the middle zone.

Russian varieties of columnar apple

In Russia, Professor V. V. Kichina (All-Russian Breeding and Technological Institute of Horticulture and Nursery, Moscow) became a pioneer in the selection of columnar apple varieties.
We give a brief description of some of the varieties he created. Apple varieties that are still being tested are designated as promising.

CURRENCY
Winter variety. Trees are small and compact, semi-dwarfs. In the 4th year they reach full yield. The fruits are medium and large, from 100-140 to 250 g, rounded, with a beautiful red barrel against a general golden background, the skin is thin. Yield 5-6 kg per tree. They ripen in the first decade of October and are stored until January. Winter hardiness is average. Scab resistance at the genetic level.

VASYUGAN
A promising early winter variety. The trees are medium-sized, small-sized and compact. They bear fruit from the first year after planting in the garden as annuals. On the 4th-5th, full yield occurs - up to 6 kg per tree. Apples are hard, medium and large (up to 200 g), conical and elongated-conical, red-striped in color, with a dense thin skin. They ripen in mid-September and are stored for about a month. This is one of the most winter-hardy varieties; it withstands frosts up to 42 degrees without freezing.

DIALOG
Early summer variety. The trees are medium-sized, small-sized, compact. Fruits of 70-100 g, flat, beautiful yellow color. Ripens among the earliest varieties in July, stored for about a month. The taste is sweet and sour with a pleasant light aroma, the flesh is white.

IKSA
A promising variety of summer-autumn ripening. Tree of medium vigor. Fruits in the year of planting. Apples weighing 110 g each, tasty, reminiscent of the Grushovka Moscow variety. The yield is high.

CHINESE GOLDEN
A promising variety of summer-autumn ripening. Strong column. The tree is productive and fast growing. Apples weighing 20 g of a very attractive bright yellow color ripen in early September and can hang until frost. The variety is moderately resistant to scab.

CHINESE RED
A promising variety of apples of summer-autumn ripening. Column of dwarf type of growth. The variety is exceptionally fruitful and fast-growing. Bright red apples weighing 20-25 g ripen in early September.

IDOL
A promising autumn large-fruited variety. Trees are semi-dwarfs, closer to dwarfs. Apples are red-striped, weighing up to 250 g. They ripen in early October, they are well stored until January. The yield is about 5 kg per tree. The variety is relatively winter-hardy, responsive to good care.

MALYUKHA
A promising early winter variety. Trees are small and compact - natural dwarfs. They bear fruit from the first year when planting one-year-olds in the spring, and on the 4th-5th trees reach their maximum yield - up to 6 kg per tree. The fruits are truncated-conical in shape, intense yellow and yellow-orange in color, with a shiny, thin, but strong skin. They ripen in mid-September and keep well for about a month.

Nectar
A promising summer early-growing variety of a columnar apple tree. The trees are compact, semi-dwarf. Apples 100-140 g each, sweet with honey aroma, white-yellow, ripen at the end of August. Withstands frosts up to 42 degrees.

MOSCOW NECKLACE
Winter, early-growing and unusually productive variety of a columnar apple tree. Sometimes, under the weight of the fruit, a bend in the trunk is observed. Yield 8-10 kg per tree. Apples 150-170 g each, dark red, dessert flavor. They ripen in mid-September and can be stored until March. Winter hardiness is high, resistant to pests and diseases. This is by far the best variety.

Ostankino
Early winter variety. The trees are medium-sized, small-sized and compact. Apples are medium and large - up to 300 g, rounded flat, beautiful bright red color. They ripen in mid-September and can be stored until December. The taste of fruits with a predominance of sweet dessert. Yield 5-6 kg per tree. Winter hardiness is very high.

THE PRESIDENT
Early winter columnar apple variety. The trees are medium-sized, small-sized, compact, semi-dwarf. Productivity is 5-6 kg per tree, apples are medium and large (up to 250 g), flat, rich white-yellow color, with thin skin. The taste is sweet-sour, dessert. They ripen in mid-September and can be stored for 1.5 months.

CHERVONETS
Autumn variety, apples weighing 120-160 g, individual up to 350 g, bright red, ripen at the end of September. Needs cross-pollination, in cold summer flower buds are laid less than normal. In the inflorescence, 1-2 fruits are tied. The taste is not inferior to the most valuable varieties.

In recent years in VNIISPK (Orel) 8 new columnar apple varieties were obtained, most of which are genetically resistant to scab, which makes them especially attractive. We will introduce you to the features of these varieties.

DELIGHT
Promising late autumn-early winter variety. Tree of medium vigor, high yielding, immune to scab. Apples 170 g each, yellow with a red blush, can be stored in the refrigerator until February. The pulp is greenish, tender, juicy, sweet and sour.

GARLAND
A promising autumn variety. Tree of medium vigor, scab immune. Apples 140 g each, yellow-green with a slight blush. The pulp is juicy, tender, the taste is sweet and sour. The variety is high-yielding, but when overloaded, the apples become very small. Differs in the almost complete absence of lateral branching.

ESENIA
Promising late autumn-early winter variety. Tree of medium vigor, scab immune. Apples 170 g each, sweet and sour, can be stored in the refrigerator until March.

IN MEMORY OF BLYNSKY
Promising late autumn-early winter variety. Tree of medium vigor, scab immune. Apples 140 g each, conical, greenish-yellow with a blush and stripes. The pulp is fine-grained, juicy, sweet and sour taste.

POETRY
Promising late autumn-early winter variety. Tree of medium vigor, with immunity to scab. Apples of 180 g or more, slightly flattened, dark red. The pulp is greenish, medium density, fine-grained, very juicy.

PRIOKSKOE
Winter variety. A tree of medium vigor, resistance to scab is average. Apples 150 g each, ribbed, greenish pulp, medium density, fine-grained, very tasty.

CONSTELLATION
A promising winter variety immune to scab. Apples 125 g each, dark red, tasty. Can be stored in the refrigerator until March.

Breeder M. V. Kachalkin 10 years ago, he began to create decorative red-flowered columnar apple trees.
Today, five of its varieties have successfully passed variety testing. As the author of the new forms notes, these columns not only have beautiful flowers, but also quite tasty apples.

GARNET BRACELET
Column of medium growth strength with a small number of lateral branches. At the age of 5 years, the height of the tree is 1.3-1.6 m. The flowers are light purple, very large. There are no bare stems. Red-purple apples weighing 30-40 g.

CARMELITA
Column of dwarf type of growth. At the age of 5 years, the height of the tree is 1-1.2 m. The flowers are large, dark purple. There are no bare stems. Numerous apples are dark lilac, weighing 25-35 g.

RASPBERRY NECKLACE
Column of medium growth strength. At the age of 5 years, a tree 1.3-1.4 m high without lateral branches and bare trunk. The flowers are red-purple, red-crimson apples weighing 25-30 g.

ATTRACTIVE SCENT
Vigorous productive column without lateral branches. At the age of 5 years, the height of the tree is 1.8-2 m. The flowers are large, purple. Raspberry apples weighing 40-50 g.

PINK TALE
Vigorous columnar apple tree with a small number of side branches. At the age of 5 years, the tree is 1.6-1.8 m high. The flowers are lilac, very large. There are no bare stems. Pink apples weighing 25-30 g.

Academician N.I. Savelyev and colleagues at VNIIGi SPR (Michurinsk) also created varieties of the columnar apple tree - Gothic, Stela, Strela.
Apple columns were also bred in Bashkiria: Akhtyam Mansurov, Ural Tau, Kyzyl Mayak.

Note
On a site near Moscow, the author of the article has been growing three varieties of columnar apple trees for 15 years (Valyuta, President, Ostankino) and I can say that during this period no freezing was noticed.
Author - L. Yurina

It would seem, what else can breeders surprise with the many varieties of apples available. There are two or three trees in every garden plot, and we are accustomed to the traditional appearance of their spreading crowns. In the summer heat, they give much-needed coolness in the shade. However, for those who have a very small garden, the columnar apple tree, which does not have a crown in our classical sense, would be an ideal choice. It takes up very little space, and a dozen such plants can be planted in a country house or garden.

Features and varieties

An unusual species was bred by chance. This event took place in South America. In the sixties of the twentieth century, an attentive scientist accidentally saw a non-standard branch on an ancient half-century apple tree. It was without lateral shoots, densely covered with foliage and large apples. Such a bizarre play of nature was the impetus for the creation of a new variety. Ten years later, breeders from England managed to create a fundamentally new species with the required characteristics.

Later it became known that the trees have such an unusual columnar shape due to the presence of a special gene in them. Such apple trees have a thicker trunk compared to the classic species. In fact, there are lateral branches on it, only they are very small and grow very close to the trunk at an acute angle. Such a beauty lives from fifteen to twenty years.

The relatively short life of the plant is compensated by the rapid entry into the fruiting phase. Harvest begins to be harvested in the second year. At the same time, by the age of five, it becomes good and stable, and in the next two years it only increases.

In connection with this feature, two types of apple trees should be distinguished. The first one has the pure Co mutation gene. Such varieties also protect especially from the influence of negative influences on the top of the trunk. Others are descendants of regular varieties grafted onto superdwarf plants. They need pruning and shaping. Winter frosts on an apple tree are not so terrible even in the first years of life.

To date, there are more than a hundred varieties intended for cultivation in different regions. They differ in taste, ripening time (late, early and middle), in plant height. Columnar plants originally came from the south, and new varieties were bred for warmer conditions. But now there is an opportunity to grow an interesting exotic variety in the dachas of the middle lane. It goes without saying that it is necessary to choose frost-resistant apple trees.

It will feel good in the climatic conditions of the central region variety "Amber Necklace". On a medium-high tree, medium-sized fruits of a golden hue grow. This late maturing type is not afraid of winter frosts and has a very high yield. The taste of juicy apples is sweet and sour, pleasant, with a granular pulp structure.

"Amber Necklace"

For the earliest ripening of large greenish apples of the variety "Cheburashka" The plant needs good sun exposure. The plant is cold-resistant and has a high yield. By the fifth year of growth, the trunk is simply plastered with apples with a pleasant sour taste. "Cheburashka" is also valued for its high resistance to many diseases of fruit trees. The fruits are good for all kinds of preservation.

"Cheburashka"

Universal late-ripening variety "Chervonets" suitable for cultivation in most regions of Russia. The compact size allows you to grow a lot of trees in the garden and get a big harvest in the third year after planting. Apples are very beautiful, large, burgundy. This species is distinguished by excellent cold tolerance and strong immunity to garden insects and tree diseases. A feature of sweet fruits is that they must be removed from the tree in time, preventing overripeness and, especially, falling of apples.

"Nectar" best suited for suburban cottages. At an average height of a tree, large, very sweet apples with characteristic notes of honey aroma ripen. The tree withstands frosts below thirty degrees, but needs timely spring treatment from pests. With good care from one plant, you can collect about eleven kilograms of apples.

"Nectar"

Recently bred by domestic breeders "The president" very compact yet productive. Apples with sourness ripen at the end of summer and can last until the New Year holidays. The variety can be grown even in Siberia and the Urals due to its ability to withstand frosts of forty degrees. About nine kilograms of yellow apples are harvested from the plant.

"The president"

Late ripe "Vasyugan" can also be cultivated in areas with harsh natural conditions. Tall apple trees will survive the Siberian frosts well. On the tree grow cone-shaped scarlet apples covered with yellowish stripes, sweet, with a slightly noticeable sourness.

Large fruits ripen by the beginning of autumn, but they do not withstand long storage. It is better to use them fresh from the branch.

"Vasyugan"

Semi-dwarf densely leafy apple tree "Ostankino" can give odds to their tall relatives. With a good summer, the harvest from one tree can be up to fifteen kilograms. The variety does not require much time for care, as it has a high resistance to various pests and is almost not susceptible to disease. The fruits grow large, light green with a scarlet side, which (with enough light) can stain the entire skin. Sweet apples are fully ripe in September and can be stored for several months.

"Ostankino"

Very sweet red apple variety "Triumph" collected in October. Trees will delight not only with the dessert qualities of the crop, but also with their decorative elegant appearance. Despite the small size of apple trees, they bring a stable good harvest.

"Triumph"

"Arbat" most suitable for planting in the middle lane due to its cold-resistant qualities. Bright cherry-colored sweet fruits ripen late, their main harvest occurs at the end of September and even October. Medium-sized fruits have good keeping quality. They are also suitable for processing into jam, jam, compotes, marshmallows.

"Arbat"

Columnar "Currency" is a winter variety. You can harvest very late, at the end of October. It stays there all winter until spring. The variety is valued for its resistance to diseases and the taste of the fruit. Apples are yellow, weighing up to two hundred grams, with a sweet taste and a very pleasant aroma.

"Currency"

"Moscow necklace", contrary to its name, is suitable even for cultivation in areas with difficult climatic conditions. Plants of this species are very winter-hardy and delight with strong immunity to diseases of various kinds. The peculiarity of the tall trees of the "Moscow Necklace" is that for their successful pollination, other varieties will have to be planted on the site. Red-skinned, late-ripening apples have a good sweet flavor with little acidity.

"Moscow necklace"

Apple tree "Malyukha" named for its super compact size. At the same time, the fruits on it ripen quite large with an average weight of 150 grams, slightly elongated, with green-yellow skin. The high yield of the variety is complemented by precociousness. Knowledgeable gardeners love him for the excellent taste characteristics of apples and their delicate aroma.

"Malyukha"

Variety "Gin" will delight lovers of large harvests. It is quite suitable for planting in the middle lane due to its high frost-resistant qualities. Bright red apples can be stored all winter. Their size can vary with a weight of 90 to 180 grams. The taste is familiar, sweet and sour, with juicy crispy flesh when biting. Good "Gin" and its universal use in cooking.

"Gin"

"Yesenia" popular for its resistance to extreme cold and fruit tree diseases (particularly scab). Apples grow large, with raspberry-scarlet, waxy skin.

"Yesenia"

Landing

Plants can be propagated by seeds or grafting. But the first method is very costly in time and effort, and the second is suitable for professionals, as it requires special knowledge. Therefore, the most optimal for most gardeners is planting seedlings, which should be bought in a nursery. Specialists will be able to clarify some subtleties in the agricultural technology of each individual variety.

To get an excellent harvest, you should choose the right seedling.

The best choice would be an annual seedling. It has great survival and adaptability. Do not forget about climatic zoning when buying a new variety of apple trees. It is good if the root system is closed in a pot or at least in a bag.

Before purchasing a tree, you need to examine the root system for damage and disease. You should also not take a plant with too dry roots. His chances of surviving a landing would be very small.

It is preferable to choose a well-lit area for the future apple orchard. At the same time, it should be sufficiently sheltered from the winds. This is important due to the specificity of the variety with a compact root system and the absence of a crown. With a strong wind, such a tree 2-3 meters high without strongly pronounced side branches can simply fall.

The culture prefers light, fairly fertile, chemically neutral soils. It is important to ensure good drainage at the landing site. If groundwater is close enough in the ground, then such a site is not suitable for columnar apple trees. Their root system, with a long main root and a very small lobe of lateral roots, can erode and the tree will inevitably die. It is necessary that the groundwater flow be at least 2-2.5 meters.

Summer

You can plant columnar apple trees in summer. To get a good harvest next year, you will need to take a little more care of the tree. It is better to choose a variety in a proven horticultural economy. There you can get a plant that will be dug up right in your presence. An apple tree is planted in a pre-prepared hole, as in the spring-autumn planting.

First you will need to prepare the seedling itself: the day before this, the roots must be well moistened or, before planting, lowered for several hours in warm water. Some, in pursuit of the harvest, try to make the apple tree bear fruit in the first year. This is wrong, as the plant will spend energy on fruiting, instead of taking root well and preparing for winter. If you decide to plant a plant in the summer, then you should cut off all emerging flower buds. The tree will thank the harvest for the next season.

In addition to what needs to be planted correctly, it is necessary to observe the watering regime. The culture is quite moisture-loving, in the first three years special attention should be paid to this. The soil will have to be watered at least twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

For one seedling up to two years old, one or two buckets of water will be required when watering. Periodically, in the first summer of planting, it will be necessary to loosen and mulch the soil once every two weeks.

spring

When planting in spring, a pit for a seedling is prepared in the fall in the manner described above. During the winter period, the soil will sag better, and mineral fertilizers will dissolve in the soil to the required concentration, which the spring seedling can easily absorb. Young trees planted in this way take root better and bloom in the first spring.

To make the apple tree stronger, the first fruits are plucked, leaving only a few pieces. In this way, the columnar variety will be able to maintain its strength for good rooting and combating spring temperature drops.

An important condition for the cultivation of a plant: planting is carried out before the opening of the first buds. It is good to spray the tree with a frost solution, as well as a fungicide. If the winter was little snowy, and there was little rainfall in the spring, the apple tree will need timely watering up to twice a week.

autumn

At least two weeks before planting, the future seat should be prepared. In the pit for the seedling, all fertilizers should dissolve well, and the adjacent soil should be compacted. If this is not done, then after planting, the root lobe may sink under a layer of soil, which is very harmful for a young tree.

When planting a large number of apple trees, the space is organized in rows, the gap between which should be at least a meter. The distance between the trees in a row is about fifty centimeters. Further, recesses are dug for plants, which are prepared in a special way.

The size of the pit should be at least 0.8 by 0.8 meters and about one meter deep. The upper fertile soil layer is separated to the side when dug out without mixing it with deeper sandy and loamy layers.

If the soil is acidified, 100-150 grams of lime or chalk are first added to the seat. In heavy, poorly drained soils, large expanded clay backfill is poured into the bottom of the groove. It can be replaced with a mixture of medium-sized stones (about 2-3 centimeters) with sand in a ratio of one to one.

After that, a nutrient mixture is prepared from three buckets of compost or humus, one hundred grams of superphosphate and one hundred grams of potash fertilizers. Everything is poured into the ditch, mixing well. If necessary, in the absence of precipitation, the soil is watered with a bucket of water. In 10-14 days, the soil should settle properly.

With a direct landing in a pit, the top layer of soil is covered with a slide, which was thrown aside during digging. An apple tree is placed on such a hill so that the border of the trunk and roots is above ground level. The root system is covered from above with the remaining soil and carefully rammed. Need to water a fresh planting; this will require up to two buckets of warm water. Often a support is placed next to the seedling for further garter. After the soil has dried, the trunk circle is mulched. Branches, grass, peat, sawdust are suitable for this purpose.

Care

Proper care in springtime consists of pruning, pest control, nitrogen fertilization and removal of excess ovaries. Before opening the buds, the trees are shaped as necessary. Spray branches with buds with common universal fungicides. Instructions for their use are usually on the packaging. For one tablet or a ten-gram sachet with the active substance, 10-12 liters of water are taken. First, the chemical is diluted in a liter of warm water, stirring thoroughly. Then bring the solution by adding pure water to the desired concentration. Spray the plant using a protective mask and gloves away from children and animals.

It is important to feed the seedling with nitrogen fertilizers for better tree growth and leaf formation. Columnar apple trees produce a lot of fruits, so they take a lot of nutrients from the soil. They need to be replenished. To do this, you can use urea, rotted, diluted in a ratio of one to ten cow or horse manure. Top dressing is carried out no more than twice during the spring, usually in April and May. You can also fill the lack of nitrogen in the soil with fermented bird droppings. It is also recommended to spray the branches at the stage of bud formation with a seven percent solution of urea. It will serve not only as fertilizer, but also as protection of the plant from diseases.

It is also advised to make an affordable substitute for organic fertilizer from food waste or first grass. For such a fertilizer, you will need a barrel or bucket, which is half filled with waste or compost - two-thirds of the volume is possible, the rest is filled with water and infused for one week. When a characteristic smell of fermentation appears, the infusion can be used for top dressing, diluted with warm water at a temperature not lower than 20 degrees in the proportion of one part of the fertilizer per ten liters of water.

For the proper formation and development of an apple tree, it is necessary to properly cut off growing flower buds. In the first year of life, it is desirable to remove them all. You can leave 2-3 flowers to see what fruits will grow. The following season, about a dozen flower stalks are left on the tree. Gradually, from the third year, the number of fruits is increased, as the plant becomes stronger and can already withstand a sufficient load on the trunk. So, on a three-year-old plant, initially in the spring they leave twice as many ovaries as there will be a crop. In summer, when the size of each fruit is about the size of a ripe cherry, one of the two apples is plucked on each double inflorescence.

Depending on the amount of precipitation in the spring, the apple tree must be watered at least once a week. The earth in the trunk circle is loosened for better oxygen access to the roots after each soil moisture.

So that the area near the apple tree does not overgrow with weeds, the ground is mulched. Sometimes this is not possible if the apple tree has a young graft with a weak root system. Then, in order to avoid injury to the plant, siderates are planted around the rootstock trunk, which are periodically cut with scissors or mowed, laying side by side.

In summer, with active fruiting, trees need watering and weeding if the near-trunk area has not been mulched. In the first half of June, for better fruiting, columnar apple trees are fertilized with mineral complexes with a high content of phosphorus and potassium. This can be done by watering with a solution from a watering can for faster penetration into the soil. If the summer is rainy, for a longer effect, dry fertilizers can be applied, digging the soil ten centimeters. To do this, you will need about a glass of granular fertilizer to process one or two square meters in the near-stem circle of a three-year-old seedling.

Compliance with watering conditions will provide a young tree with good survival and rooting, and for a grown tree - strong immunity and an excellent harvest. In columnar apple trees, the roots are located quite compactly in the upper soil layer, so in hot weather they need to be watered every other day. In a normal, non-dry summer season, the land is irrigated twice a week. In one of them, the soil must be thoroughly soaked abundantly. In the middle of summer, watering is reduced by a third. And by harvesting it is completely stopped for about two weeks.

An effective and convenient way for cultivating such plants will be automatic drip irrigation. At the same time, once a month, the apple tree must be well watered in the usual way, soaking the ground near the trunk radius to the depth of the shovel bayonet. Experienced gardeners recommend twice a month after sunset to irrigate the crowns of plants themselves from a hose with a fine spray nozzle or a conventional chemical sprayer with clean water.

In June, you need to periodically inspect apple trees for the appearance of various pests. When they are detected, the tree is urgently processed by spraying. At the same time, both folk remedies are used in the form of a solution of soap and wood ash, as well as commonly available store-bought fungicides. Two to three weeks before the expected harvest, chemical treatment is stopped.

At the beginning of summer, the formation of the required number of fruits on a young tree, which was started in the spring, also continues. Of the several ovaries in one bundle, only one fruit should remain. At the end of summer, fertilizers for the apple tree cease to be applied. For good growth of new shoots, you can apply a small amount of potash fertilizers, and nitrogen fertilizers remain until the new spring. The preparation of the columnar apple tree for wintering begins. To do this, four leaves are cut off at the very top so that it does not freeze.

It is necessary to take care of the plant even after the end of the season. Proper pre-winter preparation will help to grow a healthy tree. In autumn, after harvesting, complex fertilizer is applied to the ground with digging. The bottom of the trunk is whitewashed with whitewash, lime or a special solution. They treat the soil, bark and the plant itself from fungal diseases and insect pests. The stem of the youngest trees is covered with spruce branches for the winter. Instead, you can take well-dried wood chips. Do not use grass or straw for these purposes, as it attracts hungry rodents. When the snow settles well, the base of the tree is well covered with snow so that the root lobe does not freeze, and the bottom of the trunk is protected from animals.

Often, gardeners wonder about the need to trim the branches of a tree. At the same time, it must be remembered that a real columnar variety with a mutated gene does not need to form a crown. If a scion of a dwarf variety grows in a summer cottage, then you should know some rules for pruning such a fruit tree.

Forming is carried out in the spring, in the fall it is highly undesirable to do this. Pruning is carried out after the leaves fall in the summer or before the buds open. At the same time, the law of direct proportionality always works: the more part of the shoot is plucked, the stronger it will grow. On a plant of different ages, branches are formed in different ways.

In any case, the main rule is: you can not cut the main trunk. Otherwise, the apple tree will stop growing and begin to produce side shoots, turning from a columnar to a regular dwarf variety. In the first year of cultivation on the site, the lateral processes are cut so that two fruit buds remain on them. In the next and third year of life, plants form new buds, leaving short branches with two or three fruit ovaries after last year's cut. Unnecessary branches without inflorescences are removed while they are still young and have not had time to stiffen, so the tree survives better.

Sanitary pruning is also carried out on columnar apple trees, removing diseased, affected and old shoots. After three years of active fruiting, the stiff branches are cut off, since they will no longer give apples for the next season. Such old fruit links that have ceased to function are removed to the very base.

In the event that the apical point of growth did not survive the winter or died for other reasons, it should be cut, leaving only one pair of fruit buds. Two shoots should grow from them. The next year, only one of them is left to grow, which is more vertical (stretches in height, not in breadth).

Cultivation of the columnar type as a whole requires special labor costs of time only in the first three critical years, the most important for the life and development of the plant. Reproduction of such apple trees requires more serious efforts. Traditional grafting onto a suitable rootstock can be difficult for gardeners without the required experience. In this case, breeders are advised not to graft the plant, but to use the method of aerial propagation of plants.

To do this, in early spring, an accessible, non-stiffened branch with a thickness of no more than a finger is chosen in early spring. At its base, the bark is cut with a ring. It should not be too narrow, about four millimeters thick. For a day, the incision is wrapped in cotton wool or a soft cloth soaked in a rooting agent solution. After such a compress, they change to a black plastic bag with wet peat, which is wrapped around the cut. It will need to be moistened periodically. The package must be well protected from oxygen ingress. Around September, roots should appear at the site of the spring incision. Such a branch is cut off from a tree and planted independently in the ground.

Diseases and treatment

In general, the modern work of breeders allows gardeners to care little about the treatment of columnar apple trees from diseases. They have a fairly strong immunity to various fungi and are little affected by insects. But it also happens that a young apple tree does not bloom, does not bear fruit in the third year and dries even with excellent care. The reason for this may be the infection of the tree. If it is detected early, you need to quickly take measures to eliminate the disease and save the plant. The best remedy for this, of course, will be spring prevention by spraying the apple tree from pests.

Diseases of ordinary fruit trees are also characteristic of columnar trees. These can be proliferation, fruit rot, mosaic varieties, common cancer, scab and rust. This plant also has one advantage over conventional branched trees: it is easier to process. You can do this with an ordinary small sprayer with a vessel behind your back, or even manually with a brush.

Apple codling moth is one of the most common pests and an eternal headache for many gardeners. Its larvae overwinter in cocoons in the ground, and in the spring they turn into butterflies and lay new offspring in flowers, on leaves and ovaries of a tree. The larvae enter the future fruits and eat them from the inside. Thus, crop losses sometimes amount to fifty percent of the total.
The apple flower beetle is dangerous because it wakes up very early and its appearance is difficult to notice. He survives the winter under the bark, the remains of foliage and other shelters invisible to the eye. In spring, it gives larvae, which also take root under the bark, into branches and the very core of flower buds. If you do not notice the pest in time, you can lose the entire crop. Traces of its vital activity are distinguishable by brownish buds covered with mucus. They often begin to fall en masse.
Spraying with swelling of the kidneys with a solution of the drug "Fufanon" helps to cope with the flower beetle. The next treatment during the opening of flower buds is carried out with a solution of Intacid-M. At the very beginning of spring, when the average daily temperature does not exceed 12 degrees, the bugs can simply be shaken off the branches. During this period, they are still not very active and did not have time to acquire offspring.

The apple-tree sucker (popularly “leaflet”) is a very small beetle with transparent wings, well camouflaged. But its larvae are easier to spot, they are orange or yellow thick worms. They overwinter in the egg, preferring a place under the bark or at the base of the kidney. When the leaves open, the larvae begin to become active and eat the plant, sucking out all the juices from it. The tree begins to slow down growth, may stop flowering. Individual affected fates simply dry up and die.
A good effect against an insect is given by folk remedies. For early spraying, it is good to use a solution of tobacco or wood ash with the addition of soap for better deposition of the solution on the branches. For ten liters of water to prepare the product, take up to half a kilogram of ash and two tablespoons of laundry soap (liquid toilet can also be used). If the damage to the plant was not detected at an early stage, it is advisable to use chemicals such as Fas or SumiAlfa.

Aphids on an apple tree bring tangible harm to the plant. She loves to winter under the bark of an apple tree, and her larvae usually eat the youngest and most tender shoots at the tops. For this reason, aphids are difficult to detect. It also hides on the reverse side of the sheet, releasing its sticky substance onto the surface. As a result, the leaves curl, the shoots become crooked, the plant loses strength and gets sick.

Scab is a fungal disease. Overgrown abandoned areas in gardens, combined with high humidity lasting more than a week, especially contribute to its appearance. To date, scientists have created varieties of columnar apple trees that are resistant to this disease at the gene level. The scab spends the winter in autumn fallen leaves and other rotting plant debris. In the spring, with the onset of rains, the spores of this fungus swell and enter the breeding phase. Hairy gray-green spots appear on the foliage and fruits. Affected crops slow down their growth, and the quality of their fruiting decreases.
To destroy the harmful scab, a blue solution of Bordeaux liquid (five percent) is used. Three weeks later, the procedure is usually repeated. You can also use the preparation "Skor" for spraying. To prevent the disease from spreading throughout the garden, the soil should be well cleaned of organic residues in the fall and spilled with a solution of ammonium nitrate, using 600 grams per bucket of water. The soil should be evenly watered around the near-stem circle within a radius of about a meter.

If the apple tree suddenly began to dry, then the cause is most likely a disease, popularly referred to as firewood. This fungal disease appears on branches and bark, forming dark purple-tinged spots that grow in breadth and depth. Gradually, the surface of the bark cracks and becomes covered as if with an ashy coating. Affected fruits rot, become covered with raw ulcers and shrivel.
This disease usually affects old plants that are already more than fifteen years old. But prevention can also be carried out on young apple trees. To do this, you need to cut off the old dried three-year-old branches in time, collect the fallen fruits and destroy the affected ones. If traces of the fungus are found on the branches, then the affected areas are cleaned with a sharp, treated with fire or alcohol, a knife, capturing at least 0.5 cm of a healthy tree in depth. The sections are then washed with a five percent solution of copper sulfate.

If the apple tree is still frozen, then you should not despair. This does not mean the death of the tree, it just may begin to grow more actively from below in breadth. To avoid this, you have to start the formation of the plant. To do this, the frozen top is cut off to the first two viable buds. Over time, they will grow to 10-15 cm shoots. The following year, one of the branches is removed, leaving the straightest, stretching upwards. At the same time, it is desirable to remove the excess process before it hardens - this way the tree will more easily endure stress.
The correct pruning process plays an important role in the further growth of the apple tree. The cut should not be too sharp and smeared. To get a perfect surface, it is better to use a knife. The stump after circumcision should not be too short so that the buds can grow well. The cut itself is carried out in the direction from the base of the branch to its top. It should be without bark injury and burr on the woody middle. Cut off the frozen branch, retreating about two fingers in height from the kidney.

The history of the variety began in 1964 in the Canadian city of Kelowna. A half-century varietal Macintosh apple tree gave an unusual shoot - without side branches, with dense foliage, an abundance of fruits. The natural mutation was noticed, propagated and used in breeding work by scientists from different countries. After twelve years, samples of the columnar apple tree were bred.

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Description and varieties

The columnar apple tree is distinguished by a thickened trunk covered with small side shoots. The branches depart from the conductor at a small angle, grow parallel to it, so the crown of the tree resembles a pyramidal poplar in shape.

Scientists have found that this form appeared in the plant under the influence of a special Co gene. Instead of powerful skeletal branches characteristic of varieties of ordinary apple trees, small lateral branches are formed. They are thickened, with short internodes and are often replaced by young fruit twigs - fruitlets. In addition to varieties with a special gene, this variety also includes ordinary species - on dwarf rootstocks of a columnar apple tree and with a crown formed in the form of a column.

Columnar apple trees

In medium-sized varieties of columnar apple trees, branching is 2-3 times, and in tall ones, it is 3-4 times higher than the volume of branches of dwarf varieties. The active period of growth of lateral shoots is three to four years. The branching process is highly dependent on the vertical development of the seedling. If the apical bud is damaged, growth stops, but the forcing of lateral shoots increases. To grow a natural columnar crown, after planting, it is necessary to protect the growth point in the most significant period - the first 2-3 years.

Flowering and fruiting begins in the second or third year. By the age of seven or eight years, the yield gradually increases. Subject to the rules of care, its level remains quite high and constant. Fruiting terms - 15-20 years. After that, most of the fruit twigs dry up. You can increase the viability of the plant with anti-aging pruning. This method is only suitable for medium and high varieties of the variety.

The useful features of the variety include its compactness. On the area occupied by an ordinary apple tree, several adult specimens of the columnar apple tree are placed.

Its varieties differ not only in plant height, but also in the ripening season:

early (fruits ripen in summer);
medium (autumn);
late (in the pre-winter period).

summer varieties

Fruiting from July to September. High yielding. Less susceptible to insect pests and diseases. Good resistance to cold. The harvest of early varieties is not stored, it is immediately eaten or used in preparations.

Among the best varieties are (shown in the photo below):

The president. Height up to 2 m, fruits 150-200 g, color - light shades of green or yellow. The pulp is juicy, fragrant.
Nectar. Medium height (2-2.5 m). Apples with a noticeable taste of honey, weight 100-200 g. Thick peel, light yellow color of the fruit, juicy pulp.
Vasyugan. Trees up to 3 m tall, fruits 150-200 g. Cone-shaped apples, striped red color with speckles. The pulp is juicy, sweet and sour in taste.
Ostankino. Semi-dwarf (about 2 m). Weight 150-200 g, juicy, fragrant, sweet and sour. Light green color, in some places - a red blush.

Top dressing with fertilizers

Loosening should be carried out carefully due to the proximity of the root system, especially in seedlings on clonal rootstocks. Instead of mulching in the near-trunk circle, you can do grassing - sow green manure (clover, mustard, buckwheat, etc.) and constantly mow them.

On seedlings of the first year, the set buds are removed to ensure the best growth of the crown. About a dozen flowers are left on biennial plants. Then annually the number of ovaries is gradually increased. On apple trees of 6-7 years old, the number of buds is retained, exceeding the number of fruits by no more than twice. On average, two inflorescences are left on the fruits.

Summer

In early summer (until mid-June), complex mineral fertilizers are applied under apple trees. The ovary formed in the spring is re-cut. First, two greens are left on the fruiting branches, and when they reach a size of 3-4 cm, one at a time, so that 1 apple ripens on each fruit.

During the summer, observe the condition of the branches, as well as leaves and fruits. If pests or signs of disease appear, the plant should be treated immediately. This should be done at least a month before the harvest.

autumn

In the autumn, when the fruits are already harvested, they carry out pre-winter feeding of plants. Fertilizing freshly planted apple trees with inorganic substances should be approached more carefully. It is necessary to make them before wintering in reduced quantities so as not to damage the roots. It is useful to treat the tree and near-stem soil against pests and fungi, as well as carry out sanitary pruning. In addition, they insulate the trunk for the winter.

Treatment

A good prevention of diseases and pests is spraying apple trees with a one percent solution of Bordeaux mixture or Nitrafen. Processing is carried out in early spring before sap flow and after the leaves fall in autumn. The liquid must be sprayed onto the crown and soil, since disease vectors live in tree bark and soil. It is possible to use a solution of urea (7%) during the spring procedure. The result is not only the destruction of harmful microorganisms and insects, but also the enrichment of plants with nitrogen substances.

Crown treatment from pests and diseases

Watering

The root system of columnar apple trees is located close to the surface of the earth. The root diameter is approximately half a meter. Due to the lack of a long tap root, plants need constant and frequent watering.

Under average conditions of temperature and humidity, young apple trees need watering every three days. In dry, hot periods and depending on the quality of the soil, this should be done daily or every other day.

Mature trees have more developed roots, so it is enough to water them once or twice a week. Under normal conditions, the most intensive watering is done until mid-late June. Then the frequency is reduced, in August it is minimized or stopped. The plant must have time to lay flower stalks, as well as stop growth processes and prepare for wintering.

Watering time, especially on hot days, is chosen in the morning or evening. So plants absorb moisture better and suffer less from overheating. In addition to the usual method of moistening, it is recommended to use drip irrigation. Water is supplied directly under the root, constantly and dosed. At the same time, in order to deeply wet the soil, abundant watering is carried out once a month.

Watering a columnar apple tree

Mulching

Watering goes well with mulching. It helps to retain moisture in the soil longer, prevents the top layer from drying out and crusting.

Used as mulch:

straw;
peat;
grass;
sow green manure.

Fertilizer

The high yield of the variety is ensured by the fact that the trees quickly draw useful elements from the soil and need proper regular feeding. Fertilizers are applied throughout the growing cycle. Organic top dressing (manure diluted with water or fermented chicken manure) is done in the spring. In early spring, before the development of the kidneys, the crown is sprayed with urea (7 percent solution). This accelerates the nutrition of the aerial part of the plant. Foliar top dressing can be carried out twice until mid-summer, excluding the flowering phase. A weaker 0.1% urea solution is used.

tree fertilizer

Until mid-June (during the period of active growth, flowering and fruit set), trees need to be fed with complex mineral fertilizers. At the end of July or in August, they stop adding organic matter; only potassium-based substances are used from minerals. It contributes to the formation and strengthening of the apical growth of shoots.

Variant of the annual feeding cycle:

before the awakening of the kidneys, ammonium nitrate or urea (50 g per apple tree) is added to the trunk circles;
after three to four weeks, nitroammophos is scattered under the trees at the rate of 60 g per plant;
after another three to four weeks, feeding with nitroammophos is repeated;
it is good to apply the soil with ashes - 2 cups per tree.

Foliar top dressing is carried out by spraying with the following solutions:

urea - 2-3 tbsp. l. on a bucket of water;
sodium humate;
trace elements;
biological products;
phytosporin.

Wintering of a columnar apple tree

Most columnar varieties have good winter hardiness. For additional protection of the stem of plants, a shelter made of wood chips and spruce branches is used. This ensures heat conservation, as well as dryness and protection from mice and rats. Straw, on the contrary, attracts rodents - it is not used and even the remains of straw mulch are removed. The reliability of protection from the cold increases if the cover of the trunk is sprinkled with snow and slightly compacted.

pruning

Formative pruning of columnar apple trees is carried out in early spring before the juices begin to move. Immediately after planting, the side shoots are shortened to the second from the trunk of the kidney. Over the next two to three years, new shoots with fruit links grow from them. Excess side shoots are removed as soon as possible in order to cause less harm to the plant. Small pruning to enhance branching is carried out at the beginning of the summer season and shortly before preparation for wintering.

The shorter the shoots are cut, the stronger the growth is given by the buds remaining on them. With proper pruning, the tree grows 10-15 cm per year and lays two or three side branches.

Fruit shoots are laid on the trees of the second year in spring. On branches cut last season from two shoots, a more horizontal one is allowed to grow - it will yield a crop this year. The vertical one is shortened to two buds, which will again expel two powerful shoots.

Pruning a columnar apple tree

Fruiting branches are gradually removed, replacing them with new shoots, which are pruned in the same way as last season. Fruit twigs are harvested for three to four years, after which they are completely cut off.

The central conductor of plants should be protected from damage. It cannot be pruned, as the growth of the tree stops and the development of lateral branches begins. If the growth point has been damaged or dried up, the conductor is cut off, leaving two buds to the upper side shoot. When they give growth, you need to choose a more vertical branch and let it grow. The shoots closest to the trunk are shortened to the size of ordinary fruits.

Sanitary pruning is carried out in early spring or before wintering, while the branches are removed:

sick;
withered;
damaged;
as well as those that unnecessarily thicken the crown.

Pruning columnar apple trees in the fall is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. The pruning tool needs a sharpened one. It must be disinfected before use. Slices are treated with garden pitch or drying oil.

The video shows the correct pruning of a columnar apple tree. Photographed by Boris Gordeev.

How to deal with pests and diseases?

The main measures for the treatment of apple trees from insect pests and for the prevention of diseases are carried out in early spring or late autumn after the leaves are shed.

Means of combating insects and fungi are selected depending on the specific types of damage:

Carbamide (urea). Burns out pests - both adults and larvae. Additionally enriches the branched part of the plant with nitrogen. Autumn processing is made stronger with a 5% solution. When spraying in late autumn, the concentration of the agent is increased to 7-10%.
Copper vitriol. From insects, it destroys the codling moth, ticks and other bugs. It is used as a means of preventing anthracnose, scab, moniliosis and other diseases.
Inkstone. The properties and nature of the impact are similar to copper sulphate. Feeds the trees with iron trace element, which stimulates the growth and productivity of apple trees.
Preparation 30. It affects aphids, moths, whiteflies, ticks. Forms a thin film on the treated surface. It prevents the feeding of insects and larvae. Diluted with water in a ratio of 1:50.

Other mixtures are available, the components of which effectively counteract pests and diseases:

Karbofos;
Horus;
Aktara.

You can also use corrugated paper trapping belts, which block insects from accessing the crown from the ground.

Processing should be carried out in dry calm weather. It is desirable that no precipitation is expected in the coming days. Be sure to use personal protective equipment to protect the skin. After the procedure, you need to thoroughly wash your hands and face with soap. A useful rule of thumb is that a lack of chemicals is always better for a plant than an excess of them.

Reproduction of columnar apple trees

Getting seedlings of a variety on your own is a rather laborious process, there are several ways to propagate varietal plants:

Grafting a cutting of a columnar apple tree onto a stock of another variety. The method is complex, requiring the knowledge and experience of a professional gardener.
seed reproduction. The longest and most costly to care for. There is a possibility of trait splitting, so not all seedlings grown from seed will be of the columnar variety.
Air outlets. The optimal way. In early spring, a suitable lateral branch with a diameter of a pencil is found and an incision is made along the ring at its base. The width of the removed bark is approximately 0.5 cm. The incision site is wrapped in a tissue moistened with Heteroauxin for a day. Next, the fabric is replaced with wet peat, and the stem is wrapped in black plastic wrap. It is necessary to ensure that the peat does not dry out and there is no air access. With the right actions, by autumn the branch will give roots with a 50% chance. Then it is separated from the trunk and planted in the ground.

Most people, when they mention the word "garden", imagine a large plot of land with plantings of sprawling trees. In fact, in recent years, breeders have taken a truly revolutionary step, creating almost miniature trees with high yields. It is to such plants that the columnar apple tree belongs.

The history of the emergence of compact apple trees

Nearly 50 years ago, a Canadian horticulturist discovered a tree that looked rather strange. The apple tree had a thick, straight trunk, but it did not have the usual side branches. Instead, there were many short fruitful shoots, on which a large number of beautiful fruits ripened. A stable mutation led to the appearance of this type of tree, the result of which was the vertical shape of the crown. The gardener took cuttings from this strange tree and planted them on apple rootstocks. Thus, in 1964, the first variety of a columnar apple tree appeared, which received the name "Vazhak". Such an unusual tree immediately attracted attention.

Already in the first years after the appearance of these trees, breeders began to breed varieties with fruits of various shapes, sizes and tastes. This was facilitated by the fact that the unique characteristics of these apple trees are easily transmitted during seed propagation. The taste of the fruits of the original Macintosh tree is still considered the standard for these plants.

Tree Description

The height of columnar apple trees does not exceed 2.5 m. At the same time, their width is only about 0.5 m. There are no long side branches around the central shoot. These trees are distinguished by their precocity. In some cases, with regular fertilization of the soil, they produce a crop in the first year after planting. A columnar apple tree brings a good harvest only if the plant is provided with ideal conditions for development.

Depending on the height, columnar apple trees are divided into:

dwarf;
semi-dwarf;
vigorous.

Until recently, such plants were grown only in specialized industrial gardens, but over time they began to appear more and more often in household plots. Amateur gardeners have appreciated all the advantages of such miniature trees. In some farms, you can find apple trees grown not in open ground, but in large flowerpots. Such trees are not only a source of fruit, but also an element of landscape design.

Positive properties of columnar apple trees

The columnar apple tree, reviews of which are mostly positive (having read them, many people want to purchase such a tree for their site), is a plant with a set of truly unique properties. On its trunk, many shortened lateral shoots of a fruitful type are formed. These branches depart from it at an acute angle. At the same time, columnar apple trees, the photos of which perfectly reflect their features, have a very compact crown and a small root system. Such features of these trees make it possible to create dense plantations with high yields in a small area. Another important advantage of such apple trees is that they are not too tall, which makes it easier not only to harvest, but also to care for them.

Disadvantages of columnar apple trees

Despite all their advantages, these trees have 2 big drawbacks that prevent their rapid spread in domestic gardens:

They have a pretty high price.
Short fruiting period. So, already 5-8 years after planting seedlings, the yield of these apple trees is significantly reduced, which necessitates frequent replacement of trees with young ones.

Selection of seedlings

Annual plants are most suitable for planting. It is better to purchase seedlings of columnar apple trees in special nurseries with a good reputation. When choosing planting material, not only the type of tree, but also its condition is taken into account. So, the seedling should not be dry, have signs of mechanical damage and disease. It should be free of leaves and pests. You should also consider the frost resistance of the purchased plant, since even the best varieties that are not adapted to cold winters will not be able to grow in our climate. When transporting seedlings, their root system is wrapped with a damp cloth and covered with polyethylene.

summer ("Medok", "President");
autumn ("Vasyugan", "Jin", "Titania");
winter ("Moscow" and "Amber Necklace", Currency, "Bolero", "Arbat").

yield

Columnar apple trees, the varieties of which have quite significant differences, bear fruit well from 4 to 15 years. The tree itself can reach 50 years of age, but after 15 years its yield is significantly reduced, and it is impossible to restore it. That is why, upon reaching 15 years, such trees are replaced with young ones. From one columnar apple tree, 6-12 kg of fruits are harvested (depending on the variety).

Planting hole preparation

Columnar apple trees, reviews of which are mostly positive, need proper care. Despite their diminutiveness, they have a fairly voluminous root system. That is why, when planting seedlings, they dig rather large holes so that the roots can fit freely. The grafting site should be above ground level. 4-5 kg of rotted manure or compost are added to the pits. You can also use mineral fertilizers. To do this, take 70 g of superphosphate, 60 g of potassium, 50 g of dolomite flour, and bring them into each planting hole.

After the roots are straightened, the seedlings are poured with water. When the water is completely absorbed, they are covered with fertile soil and a depression is made around the trunk. Planted trees are watered again, and the soil around them is mulched. Some gardeners use trellises until the seedlings are fully rooted, thanks to which they remain upright.

Tree planting

Landing is carried out in spring (April) or autumn (September-October). When planted in spring, some varieties of columnar apple trees bloom in the first year of planting. Some gardeners remove flowers to allow the plant to grow stronger. At the same time, next year you can get quite a decent harvest.

The best place for planting such apple trees is the lowlands, in which snowdrifts gather in winter to protect tree trunks from freezing. Saplings of a columnar apple tree are placed in rows with an interval between them of 90-100 cm. This distance provides free passage. Between plants in a row, the interval is 40-50 cm. With this arrangement of apple trees, up to 200 seedlings can be planted on 1 weave.

When placing trees, an important principle should be taken into account: all varieties should be divided into groups (summer - with summer, winter - with winter). This is due to differences in the agricultural technology of these plants. All varieties differ in terms of pruning, top dressing, spraying and harvesting. Proper placement of apple trees on the site will reduce labor costs for their cultivation.

Another advantage of columnar apple trees is that, due to their compact crown, they practically do not provide shading on the site. Therefore, many gardeners in such gardens grow not only trees, but also strawberries, the bushes of which are planted between the trees.

Caring for columnar apple trees

Regular care of such trees consists in periodic feeding and control of pests and diseases. At the end of May, soil fertilization begins. To do this, use a solution of chicken manure or cow manure. These apple trees are affected by the same pests that start on ordinary trees. To destroy them, use appropriate insecticides. Various fungicides are used to control diseases.

In the first years of development, seedlings need intensive watering (at least 2 times a week). In winter, you can wrap the lower part of the apple tree trunk with polyethylene, which will protect the tree from freezing and rodents.

Top dressing of columnar apple trees

The main feature of growing such apple trees is the need for spring fertilizer. For this, a solution of urea is regularly used. Since the middle of summer, additional fertilizing with potassium-phosphorus fertilizers has been carried out.

pruning

Unlike most garden plants, columnar apple trees need little to no pruning. As a rule, in the presence of a healthy apical bud, only the main shoot develops. When it is damaged (by pests or frost), 2-3 competing shoots of continuation appear on the trunk. In this case, the strongest of them is chosen, and the rest are cut out when they reach a length of 15-20 cm.

Columnar apple trees, which need pruning only in rare cases, can sometimes form long side shoots. They are removed early, when they are still soft and green. At the same time, the tree is practically not injured and is less sick. Slices are treated with drying oil or garden pitch. In most cases, when caring for such trees, pinching the side shoots will be enough. The columnar apple tree, reviews of which are mostly positive, is an ideal choice for older people who find it difficult to do physical work.

Columnar apple tree (varieties for the Moscow region)

Winter-hardy varieties are grown in this region. And most of them - domestic selection. So, in the Moscow region, the columnar apple tree "President" is very popular. These compact trees are ideal for small areas. This variety has rather large (150-250 g) apples with juicy pulp. They are white and yellow in color. The fruits ripen in late summer and early autumn. The columnar apple tree of the Ostankino variety is popular due to its high yield (6-9 kg) and large red fruits with excellent taste. Also noteworthy is the Vasyugan apple tree, which is distinguished by large, hard, sweet and sour apples. This variety produces 6-7 kg of fruit from one small plant.

Very popular in the gardens of the Moscow region apple tree "Medok" (columnar). Its name is fully consistent with the taste of the fruits of this tree. They have a pleasant yellowish tint, a mild aroma and a very delicate sweet-honey taste. This variety ripens in late August or early September. Fruits are stored for 1 month. They can be used fresh, and they are also excellent for preserving and making dried fruits. Apples of the Medok variety reach a mass of 250 g. Their skin is dense, and the pulp is juicy and soft. The yield of such trees reaches 9-10 kg. A distinctive feature of this wonderful variety is its resistance to pests.

Trees with medium-sized fruits are no less popular. So, many gardeners fell in love with the miniature variety "Malyukha", which produces small fruits (100 g) with excellent taste. Oblong apples have a greenish-yellow color. Trees of the "Malyukha" variety belong to the category of dwarfs, so they can be placed on the site very compactly.

Late-ripening columnar apple trees

Gardeners are very attracted to varieties of late ripening, the fruits of which can be stored for quite a long time in the autumn-winter period. It is to these that the columnar apple tree "Currency" refers. She begins to bear fruit already in the 2nd year of her life. This late-ripening variety ripens in October. It is characterized by increased resistance to such a dangerous disease as scab. Apple tree "Currency" gives a harvest in the first year of planting. It reaches its maximum fruiting level in the 4th year. It gives a consistently high yield up to 15 years of its life. Its large fruits, reaching a mass of 200 g, are distinguished by an excellent sour-sweet taste. Apples of the "Currency" variety are perfectly preserved until February.

High-yielding late-ripening varieties include "Coral", which has a peculiar cylindrical shape. Its pleasant-tasting fruits have a beautiful red-orange color. They can be stored until January.

Apple-tree columnar "Victoria" refers to early winter varieties. Its fruits are distinguished by excellent taste and good transportability. They can be stored for a long time. A distinctive feature of this variety is that with a good yield under the mass of fruits, the tree trunk can lean towards the ground.

Apple tree "Natalyushka" gives excellent fruits with white fragrant pulp. Their peculiarity is that during storage they change their yellow-green color to pale yellow. Apples of this variety do not tolerate transportation well and, when damaged, completely lose their presentation.

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Columnar apple trees characteristic of varieties. The best varieties of columnar apple trees

Observation that provided the emergence of a new type of horticultural crops

Benefits of columnar apple orchards

Biological features of varieties of columnar apple trees

Types and varieties of columnar apple trees

Varieties of columnar apple trees by growing regions

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the southern regions

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the Central Black Earth and Siberian regions

Observation that provided the emergence of a new type of horticultural crops

Benefits of columnar apple orchards

Biological features of varieties of columnar apple trees

Types and varieties of columnar apple trees

Varieties of columnar apple trees by growing regions

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the southern regions

Varieties of columnar apple trees for the Central Black Earth and Siberian regions

general characteristics

Description of varieties and photos

The president

Nectar

Currency

Triumph

Malyukha

Amber Necklace

Ostankino

Moscow necklace

Summer

Useful videos

Conclusion

What are the good columnar varieties of apple trees?

Currency

iksha

Malyukha

Moscow necklace

Ostankino

The president

Amber necklace

What should be considered when growing columnar apple trees?

Russian varieties of columnar apple

Features and varieties

Landing

Summer

spring

autumn

Care

Diseases and treatment

Description and varieties

summer varieties

Summer

autumn

Treatment

Watering

Mulching

Fertilizer

Wintering of a columnar apple tree

pruning

How to deal with pests and diseases?

Reproduction of columnar apple trees

The history of the emergence of compact apple trees

Tree Description

Positive properties of columnar apple trees

Disadvantages of columnar apple trees

Selection of seedlings

yield

Planting hole preparation

Tree planting

Caring for columnar apple trees

Top dressing of columnar apple trees

pruning

Columnar apple tree (varieties for the Moscow region)

Late-ripening columnar apple trees

What else to read

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