Features of growing the dwarf apple tree Chudnoe

History and description of the variety

Every year, thanks to the efforts of breeders, new apple varieties emerge around the world. The Chudnoye apple tree was developed by the renowned breeder A.M. Mazunin, who worked at the Chelyabinsk Research Institute of Fruit, Vegetable, and Potato Growing.

To create a frost-resistant variety, the scientist crossed the ancient Eliza Ratke variety with the Uralskoye Severnoye x 11-20-12 hybrid. The resulting variety can be cultivated in any climate zone within Russia.

The Chudnoe apple tree variety is a natural dwarf. It can be grafted onto a vigorous rootstock. This variety can grow up to 1.5 m in height, and up to 2 m on a strong rootstock. The apple tree itself has the following description:

• low-growing tree;
• the crown is spreading. It reaches towards the ground;
• The branches are dark green. When laden with large fruits, they can trail along the ground.

These dwarf trees produce large apples that can weigh around 200 g. They have the following description:

• the shape is round, slightly flattened;
• The peel is yellow-green. On the sunny side, a blush may form, which looks like red streaks;
• ribbing is rarely seen;
• the pulp is fine-grained;
• have a sweet taste with a fairly noticeable sourness.

It is worth noting that during the flowering period, Chudnoe becomes a real decoration of the garden, as it is almost completely covered with flowers.

Main characteristics

The Chudnoye apple tree is a self-climbing variety of this fruit tree. The tree is characterized by fairly rapid fruiting, which can begin as early as the third year after planting the seedling in garden soil. Despite its unusual appearance, the apple tree is known for its abundant fruit production.

The apple tree of this variety has the following characteristics:

• late summer variety. Fruit ripens in early August;
• Fruit production increases each year. A mature apple tree can produce up to 80 kg of apples;
• Excellent taste parameters. The variety has a high score in this evaluation category;
• good frost resistance;
• ease of care;
• Compactness. The tree does not take up much valuable space in the garden.

However, to achieve good fruiting from such an apple tree, it is necessary to know and follow certain care and cultivation requirements.

Growing and care

To ensure good fruit production, the Chudnoye apple tree should be planted next to varieties such as Bratchud or Landing. These varieties will be excellent pollinators.

Saplings can be planted in any soil. The key to proper care is frequent and regular watering. However, for a richer and more delicious harvest, the following optimal growing conditions are essential:

• Nutritious and light soil (not acidic). Loamy or sandy loam soil is an excellent choice. Seedlings can be planted in areas where groundwater is close to the soil surface;
• Regular watering. This is done weekly;
• After watering, the area around the tree trunk should be loosened. Do not allow the soil to dry out;
• Fertilizing. Fertilizers are applied during the flowering period and when the apples are ripening;
• Preventive spraying of trees against parasites and diseases.

Crown pruning is performed as needed. Pruning is performed for rejuvenation, removal of old branches, crown shaping, etc.

Since the apple tree is characterized by good frost resistance, no manipulations are carried out on it before winter.

Diseases and pests

The Chudnoye variety is characterized by good scab resistance. However, the tree often suffers from the following pests:

• aphids. Parasites feed on plant sap;
• caterpillars;
• beetles. They, along with the caterpillars, dine on buds, buds, leaves, and ovaries;
• bark beetles;
• scale insects.

The last two parasites can lead to the tree's death. They are very difficult to control, as they hide deep under the bark.

In addition to insect parasites, this variety of apple tree may suffer from various rodents.

It's worth noting that with proper tree care, the risk of disease and pests is minimal. However, as soon as care becomes inadequate, the risk of infestation increases significantly.

Pros and cons

The main advantage of this dwarf apple tree is its high tolerance to low temperatures. The tree also boasts good wind resistance. These characteristics allow seedlings of this variety to be planted almost anywhere in the garden.

In addition, the following points are among the advantages of the Chudnoe variety:

• abundant fruiting;
• The apples have excellent flavor. This is evidenced by numerous positive reviews from gardeners;
• good appearance of fruits;
• Versatility. The fruits can be eaten fresh or processed;
• Good resistance to various diseases (based on gardeners' opinions). Officially, the variety is only resistant to scab.

The disadvantages of this variety include a short shelf life. After harvesting, apples can be stored for one month. Another disadvantage is the frequent infestation of the tree by parasites if care rules are not followed.

As we can see, the Chudnoye apple tree is a profitable purchase in many ways. It won't take up much space in the garden, but will produce abundant, high-quality fruit almost every year.

Video "Chudnoe Apple Tree"

This video will tell you about the characteristics of the Chudnoe dwarf apple variety.