A review of the best apricot varieties for growing in the Moscow region

What should the grade be?

The weather in this region is characterized by instability and sudden temperature fluctuations. Given the climate's unique characteristics, it's important to understand the characteristics of specific apricot varieties. Unstable, frequently changing spring weather, long winters, and cold spells with recurrent frosts all make this area unsuitable for the growth and fruiting of many apricot varieties.

As for the basic requirements, whether you want to harvest early or the timing is not critical, it's important to choose a winter-hardy variety. This is the Black Velvet apricot (black apricot).

It is important that the selected variety of such fruit-bearing crops can withstand frosts down to -30 °C. The buds should be characterized by reduced sensitivity to changes in ambient temperature. It is best to grow such plants (especially early varieties) in the south or southeast. The area where this crop is grown should be protected from northern winds.

When choosing a planting site, take a look around first. If pears or maples are grown nearby, the soil and climate will be suitable for planting. The seedling should be grafted at a height of 1.2 m. Choose varieties that are naturally self-fertile. Columnar, self-fertile apricots grow best in this region and produce a good harvest. However, self-fertility, as you can see, is far from the only criterion. To choose the most suitable variety, it's important to familiarize yourself with the main and popular varieties for the area.

The best varieties

Let's look at the most popular varieties of such fruit-bearing trees.

Zeus

The Zeus variety is a good apricot for the Moscow region. The Zeus apricot produces fruit well, yielding up to 30 kg per plant. The fruit has thin skin, with a blush on one side. The fruit is harvested starting in mid-August. The crop begins bearing fruit in the third or fourth year after planting.

Edelweiss

Another good choice is the Edelweiss apricot. This variety was bred in 1975 and is distinguished by its spherical crown. The fruits are rounded. The harvest is in late August. These fruits have thin, bright orange skin. The flavor is sweet and sour. The flesh is juicy. This variety is drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering.

Bryansk early

The Bryansky variety is distinguished by its early ripening fruit. Like the mysterious black apricot, this variety has its own unique characteristics and distinctive features. A description of the variety should begin with a note on the taste and appearance of the fruit.

One such fruit weighs an average of 33 grams. The flavor is sweet and harmonious. The plant itself requires little maintenance and is resistant to pests. These trees are also resistant to various diseases. Another advantage is their frost resistance, making this variety suitable for the Moscow region.

Red-cheeked

It doesn't require pollinators, being self-fertile. It's a giant among fruit trees. Each fruit averages 50g. The berries are light orange. They taste sweet, but with a hint of tartness. If not properly fertilized and watered, the plant will produce small fruits. Furthermore, if not properly treated, it will become a breeding ground for pests and diseases.

Hardy

The name speaks for itself. This is a frost-hardy variety that easily withstands even long, cold winters. These trees grow large and bear fruit 5–6 years after planting. The tree has thick bark. The fruits are medium-sized and have a characteristic coral hue. The flesh is sweet and juicy. The skin is pubescent.

Russian

The Rossiyanin apricot is also a winter-hardy variety. It is characterized by high yields. The fruit's flesh is aromatic and very tender. The fruit's flavor is harmonious and slightly sweet. The tree easily survives frosts down to -30°C. This plant is characterized by resistance to various diseases.

Honey

These trees reach 4 meters in height and are frost-resistant. A single tree can yield up to 20 kg of fruit. The flesh is dense and fibrous. The fruit is yellow. They have excellent flavor. The pit separates easily from the flesh.

Honey is a self-fertile variety that is ideal for the climatic conditions of the Moscow region.

Bullfinch

These trees thrive not only in the Moscow region but also in the North. They produce firm fruits that transport well, even over long distances. This variety is an excellent choice for selling the harvested crop. One drawback is the need for fungicide treatment, as this variety of apricot trees is susceptible to moniliosis.

Northern Triumph

Trees of this variety are spreading and vigorous. The fruits are large and hairy, each weighing an average of 55 g. A greenish spot is noticeable in the shade. The flesh is orange. The flavor is pleasant.

Trees of this variety produce a good harvest. The fruit has a small stone.

When choosing this variety, it is worth considering that the tree will need protection from winds and freezing in winter.

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