Description, characteristics and breeding history of Ligol apple trees, growing rules
For the site, every summer resident wants to get the best. So when choosing a variety of fruit trees. Ligol apple trees have some advantages due to which gardeners choose them. The species is resistant to disease, frost and drought, in addition, it yields a harvest of delicious apples.
A brief history of variety breeding
The species has been known since 1972. The apple tree was created in the city of Skierniewice in Poland. This variety appeared thanks to the parental species:
- Golden Delicious;
- Linda.
From them Ligol acquired many positive properties.
Advantages and disadvantages of the view
The apple tree has characteristics that make it popular all these years.
Pros:
- frost resistance;
- high productivity;
- unpretentiousness;
- high commercial quality of fruits;
- long shelf life;
- the ability to carry transportation over long distances;
- high immunity.
Minuses:
- if the storage rules are violated, apples become bitter;
- requires constant crown formation and removal of growth;
- weak resistance to fire blight;
- the frequency of the harvest may be disturbed.
Each plant has negative and positive qualities. Some summer residents do not take into account the disadvantages, since they are insignificant.
External description
This information will help the summer resident choose the right place for growing. Studying the external characteristics of the plant will help prevent mistakes in cultivation.
Tree height
Ligol grows intensively for the first 10 years, then its growth slows down. The tree grows up to 4.5 m.
Crown diameter
If the crown is not formed, then its diameter reaches 3 m. But summer residents prefer pruning, this leads to an increase in yield.
Annual growth
The peculiarity of the Ligol apple tree is that it grows strongly. It must be cut, otherwise the tree will slow down in growth and development. Annual growth from 0.35 to 1 m.
Root system
The roots of the tree are sensitive to excess moisture. When oversaturated with liquid, they begin to rot, the tree dies.Particular attention should be paid to the choice of a place for landing, ground soil should lie at a depth of 3-4 m.The root system is strong, formed by the main roots and many lateral ones.
Appearance and taste of apples
The fruits of the apple tree are leveled, thanks to this trait, they are grown for sale. The apples are large, the maximum weight is 400 g, the average weight is 250 g. The fruit shade is yellow-green, but most of it is red blush. Taste qualities are excellent, the assessment of tasters is 4.6 points on a 5-point scale. Basically, the taste is sweet, but there is also acidity, the apples are juicy with a dense pulp.
Favorable growing regions
The cultivar acclimatized for Poland does well in Ukraine. Since the climate is closer to Polish. But besides this, Ligol is successfully grown in Belarus and the southern regions of Russia.
Characteristics of the variety
In addition to external data, the summer resident needs to know about other qualities of the tree. Based on these data, he makes the final decision on planting the variety.
Winter hardiness
According to the manufacturers, the species is able to withstand temperatures down to -17 ° C. But if you graft it on a vigorous stock, it is able to transfer -30 ⁰С.
In regions with cold winters, it is recommended to huddle the apple tree before the onset of cold weather.For the winter, the trees are wrapped, paying attention to the insulation of the root system.
Immunity to scab and other diseases
Ligol's resistance to scab and powdery mildew is high. But from a bacterial burn, you need to constantly process. The infected areas are excised and burned.
If a tree is severely affected by a disease, it is uprooted to avoid spreading the disease to other plants.
Tree life
Most apple trees are long-lived, they grow for 100 years. But the fruiting of ordinary trees is 20-40 years. And those grafted onto a dwarf stock give a crop of 20-25 years.
The tree was bred only 40 years ago, but growers assume that its lifespan is not very different from other apple trees.
The nuances of ripening and fruiting
Knowing the intricacies of apple ripening, the summer resident is able to affect the yield. Observing all the techniques of agricultural technology, they get a rich harvest of tasty fruits.
Pollinating varieties
Ligol is self-fertile, therefore, to increase the number of apples, it is necessary to grow other apple trees nearby. They should bloom at the same time as this variety.
Top pollinators:
- Mac;
- Lobo;
- Champion;
- Spartan;
- Fuji and other varieties.
Planting several species at the same time allows for a bountiful harvest.
The beginning of fruiting
Already in the 3rd year, the apple tree bears its first fruits. But for the first few years, the yield per tree is only 3-4 kg. Gradually, the volume of the fruit increases.
Maturation
The fruits are harvested in mid-September - early October. The fruits become ready for consumption in a few months. During this time, they will reach their final maturity.
Collection and storage of apples
Apples are stored in special, well-ventilated areas. When assembled, they are placed in wooden boxes and laid with paper. Ligol apples keep well in the refrigerator.
Fruit use
Apples are often used fresh. But housewives find use in preparations for the winter and in cooking.
How to plant and grow a fruit tree
The correct landing technique will help you avoid future problems. Compliance with the recommendations of experienced summer residents will make it possible to grow a healthy, strong tree.
Landing
The planting process consists of several stages, their implementation will lead to a positive result.
Preparation of seedlings
Planting material is prepared in advance.If the seedling will be stored all winter, its roots are dipped in a mixture of mullein and clay, dipped into the basement or dripped on the site. The plant should be strong, without visible damage.
Timing
Planted in spring, this is the best time to plant a fruit tree. The summer resident chooses the day independently, taking into account the peculiarities of the climate of the region of residence. Saplings are planted before the start of sap flow.
Required soil composition
Fertile soil is the most favorable option for the growth of a young fruit tree. It is advisable to select the following soil composition:
- loam;
- sandy loam;
- black soil.
If necessary, humus, manure and mineral fertilizers are introduced into the ground before digging.
Optimal location
The site for planting should be illuminated by the sun, protected from drafts and wind. Of particular importance is the occurrence of groundwater and waterlogged soil. The Ligol apple tree does not tolerate excess moisture.
Hole layout and dimensions
The depth of the planting pit is 0.8 m, the width is up to 1 m. A drainage layer is formed if necessary. Then they are covered with a mixture of earth with humus, river sand, peat and wood ash. A small mound is formed, a seedling is placed on it. Sprinkle with fertile soil so that the root collar remains on the surface of the earth.
How to water and fertilize
The first time the seedling needs a lot of water, it is watered 1-2 times a week. Do not pour in. As they grow older, the number of waterings is reduced. Adult plants are watered in spring, during flowering, fruiting and after harvest.
Fertilizers are not applied for the first year. After it is watered with mullein infusion and complex mineral fertilizers.
Crown pruning
The formation of an apple tree is necessary, since Ligol is prone to thickening. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out formative pruning in spring and autumn. Sanitary pruning is carried out throughout the growing season. Dry, deformed and diseased branches are removed from the apple tree.
Prevention of diseases and pests
In spring and autumn, preventive treatments of fruit trees are carried out. They are sprayed with chemicals, observing safety precautions. Correct planting and timely implementation of agricultural techniques are considered preventive measures. In the event of diseases during flowering and fruiting, they are treated with folk remedies.
Preparing an apple tree for winter
With relative winter hardiness, Ligol must be prepared for winter. The trunk is wrapped with insulation, the trunk circle is spud and covered with mulch. The Ligol apple tree is perfect for those gardeners who grow apples for storage.
