Apple tree Tolunay: description and characteristics of the variety, resistance to diseases

In the conditions of the Siberian climate, not all fruits and berries are able to ripen, so breeders are working tirelessly to develop new varieties adapted specifically for this region. The Tolunay apple tree is especially popular with both amateur gardeners and professionals.

Variety description

The description of the Tolunay apple variety indicates that the tree grows small and does not cause discomfort to other garden crops. The crown is not prone to thickening, but needs periodic pruning. Its shape is rounded, the branches in relation to the main trunk are located at a right angle, directed upwards.The bark is brown.

The variety of frost-resistant apple tree Tolunay has deep green leaves. Their shape is slightly rounded, there are small notches along the edges.

Description of fruits

The fruits of the apple variety Tolunay are located in several pieces on the trunk. The mass of one of them does not exceed 110 grams, however, there were instances of 130 grams each. Fruit of a truncated-conical shape with slightly pronounced ribbing. At the stage of technical ripeness, apples acquire a golden yellow color with beautiful dark red or burgundy stripes.

The pulp of Tolunay apples is very juicy and tender, medium in density, painted in a delicate cream color. The taste qualities are excellent. The fruits have a pleasant sweet and sour taste and a rich classic aroma. The seed pod is in the center of the fruit. At the stage of technical ripeness, the seeds of the Tolunay apple are colored brown.

Fruits contain:

• Vitamin C - 11mg;
• sugar - 13%;
• dry matter - 16.5%;
• acidity - 0.4%.

Professional tasters rated the taste of Tolunai apples at 4.8 points.

Fruiting

The Tolunay apple tree belongs to a mixed type of fruiting. The first harvest can be enjoyed 4-5 years after planting a young seedling. In the first two years, up to 6 tons of apples with high commodity indicators are harvested from one hectare. Over time, yields increase. Already 7-9 years after planting, each apple tree is capable of producing 25 kg of high-quality crop. Fruiting at Tolunay is regular, and the yield is high.

If an apple tree tries to start bearing fruit in the first year after planting, then all the inflorescences must be cut off. This will help the seedling to take root well and get stronger.

Tolunay fruits ripen at the end of summer or the very beginning of autumn. That is why the variety is considered late summer. The apple tree is not prone to falling off. For bookmarking for long-term storage, only whole fruits are selected without mechanical damage, visible deformations and signs of damage or disease.

Tolunay has an average keeping quality. After 3 months, apples lose not only their presentable presentation, but also their taste. Optimal shelf life is 1.5 months. The fruits are excellent for eating whole, but not suitable for making dried fruits. But the harvested crop can be used for all types of processing:

• juicing;
• cooking compote or jelly;
• making apple wine;
• cooking jam.

Due to the high pectin content of Tolunay fruits, they are widely used to make jelly, jam, mousse or marmalade.

Variety resistance to diseases

Tolunay shows increased resistance to major diseases and is little exposed to pests. However, under adverse weather conditions, the crop may suffer. If the weather is rainy and cool, then in order to prevent fungal diseases, it is recommended to spray the plant with a Bordeaux mixture.

So that pests do not encroach on the apple tree, the trunk must be whitewashed with quicklime in a timely manner.

The Tolunay apple variety does not tolerate drafts, temperature fluctuations and long winters. But the plant is picky in care and takes root remarkably after transplantation. The apple tree shows increased resistance to moniliosis, and only foliage is affected by scab.

In order for Tolunai not to be exposed to pathogens and to bear fruit well, it must be fed consistently and regularly.Before fruiting begins, the plant needs nitrogen. When planting an apple tree, superphosphate, any humus and peat are added to the hole. Be sure to do an annual sanitary pruning of the tree.

Pollination

The apple tree of a frost-resistant variety called Tolunay has free pollination. Planting and caring for this plant does not cause any difficulties. The survival rate of seedlings is good.

Winter hardiness

Tolunay apple varieties can withstand a significant drop in temperatures in winter. By right, the tree is considered frost-resistant, but for the harsh Siberian climate, this indicator received only an average score. If the air temperature drops below -40 °C, then flower buds, wood and bark freeze near the apple tree.

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