Fuji apples are imported from Japan. At the beginning, they were grown only in the southern regions of the country, but today the variety is successfully bred in middle lane... And it's not difficult at all!
The origin of Fuji apples and the detailed characteristics of the variety
Fruits with an exotic name were obtained by crossing two varieties "Red Delicious" and "Rolls Janet". Japanese breeders have achieved that the hybrid inherited the best qualities from their parents. Apples are sweet and large in size. The beauty of the tree is legendary.
The apple tree is distinguished by its strength of growth, if it is not limited, then the height of an adult tree reaches 6 m. The crown forms quickly, so it must be cut. This will help grow a tree with a globular crown.
The trunk of the tree is strong, the bark is light brown with gray tint... Young shoots are smooth, shiny. Apple tree leaves are pointed at the ends, slightly pubescent, with a characteristic green color.
The variety is considered winter, the fruits ripen only in mid-autumn, so harvesting is carried out not earlier than October. The tree begins to bloom at the end of May, when there is no threat of return frosts. The fruit sets well, which practically does not depend on weather conditions. The apple tree bears fruit in a year.
For a stable harvest in the garden, it is necessary to have pollinator varieties:
Golden;
"Everest";
Red Delicious;
"Ligol".
Although this variety is a good pollinator for apple trees with a late fruiting period.
Today, the apple tree is distinguished by good winter hardiness and drought resistance, but it is often affected by fungal diseases and pests. Breeding work with the variety to improve these indicators is still underway. The apple tree has several varieties, but they are similar to each other. These are Fuji Kiku and Fujik. The first hybrid was bred in Italy, and the second in the Krasnodar Territory.
Description of fruits and rules for their storage
Fuji apples and their hybrid varieties are famous for their honey taste and aroma. The fruits are quite large, over 200 grams each. They have an attractive appearance, rounded and aligned shape. The color of the fruit is yellow; during ripening, a red blush appears on them, which takes up more than half of the fruit. The pulp is quite juicy, creamy, fragrant.
The taste of the fruit can change during storage. Initially, apples acquire a sweet and sour taste, but after a month of storage they become honey-colored, the sourness disappears.
Fuji is commercially attractive. The fruits tolerate transportation well, retain their presentation for a long time. Under proper conditions, they do not deteriorate up to 4 months, sometimes they remain until the next season. A dry and cold room helps to extend the shelf life of apples.
Apples are suitable for fresh consumption as a diet food. They withstand heat treatment, do not lose their properties, are suitable for baking, making pies, jams and other dishes.
Advantages and disadvantages of Fuji block
Among the advantages of the variety are its yield and fruit weight. Good commercial and taste characteristics. As well as the ability to quickly adapt to a new climate and growing region.
Not without disadvantages:
The apple tree requires crown formation and yield rationing;
It has low resistance to diseases and pests;
Fruiting is periodic;
The first harvest does not correspond to the declared characteristics.
But, despite the shortcomings, the variety has gained popularity and is grown on an industrial scale.
Recommendations for planting Fuji apples and care of the variety
In the southern regions of the country there are no problems with growing seedlings, there is always enough sun. But for the rest of the gardeners it is useful to know where it is best to plant a tree.
An apple tree of this variety prefers to grow in well-lit areas, where the fruits are poured and acquire a characteristic color. It is not recommended to plant seedlings in shaded areas of the garden; the productivity of the tree suffers from this. The harvest is not so juicy and tasty. Set aside the southern side of the site for planting, well protected from the wind.
The soil on the site must be fertile, on poor soil the tree does not develop well, root system turns out to be fragile. Humus, peat or manure will help to enrich the composition of the soil. They are brought in in the fall for digging. In addition, it is worth considering the depth groundwater... The root system of an apple tree does not tolerate close proximity to water.
Prepared seedlings are planted in late autumn or in early springuntil sap flow began. The pit is made according to the size of the root system, the bottom is well drained.
How to properly prepare Fuji apple seedlings for planting
For planting, young two-year-old seedlings are used. They are prepared in advance, the root system is examined and the external condition is assessed. Young trees are susceptible to diseases, so you should not ignore the preparation stage.
The root system should be well developed with no visible growths, dry areas or damage. All suspicious roots are cut. Before planting, the seedlings are soaked in water with the addition of rooting preparations for at least a day. On the day of planting, a 1% solution of copper sulfate is prepared, the roots are lowered there and kept for 3-4 minutes, after which the seedling is washed under running water and planted.
If the planting was carried out in the fall, then young trees should be protected from the upcoming frost. To do this, the trunk is spud with earth to a height of 30 cm, covered with spruce branches or dry leaves. In regions with severe winters, it is advisable to cover the crown of the tree.
In the spring, the shelter is removed, the trunk circle is loosened and mineral fertilizers are applied.
How to properly care for the Fuji variety so that the apple harvest will please
Good harvest apples can be harvested if the tree is growing young shoots. How to help seedlings develop properly?
It is worth paying attention to feeding.
From the third year of cultivation, fertilizers are applied according to the scheme:
In the spring - nitrogen mixtures;
After harvest - phosphorus-potassium compounds and manure.
Autumn fertilizers accelerate development processes, promote the ripening of shoots, and increase the winter hardiness of seedlings.
Quite good results are obtained by rationing of the crop. It can be done manually if the tree is young or mechanically. It is worth removing all excess ovaries so as not to overload the apple tree. There should be at least 10 cm between the ovaries. The mechanical rationing of fruits is carried out as follows: the branches shake strongly, all weak ovaries fall off. This technique improves the quality of the fruit, contributes to a high yield.
Do not forget about the formation of the crown. The procedure is carried out according to generally accepted recommendations, there are no special differences from other varieties.
Disease and pest control
The variety is extremely unstable to diseases, so preventive treatments will only benefit it.
Before the buds swell, the tree is treated with nitrofen, which allows the eggs of overwintered pests to be destroyed. In addition, such processing prevents the appearance of scab.
As soon as the buds have blossomed, they are sprayed with 3% Bordeaux liquid. This drug saves from a number of fungal diseases.
After flowering, young trees are sprayed with a urea solution. Such treatment acts as a top dressing, helps to increase immunity, and promotes the active growth of foliage and shoots.
Fuji apples are a frequent visitor on the shelves of Russian stores. The miracle of Japanese selection is rapidly conquering the world thanks to the excellent taste of its fruits, excellent appearance and high yield. Many gardeners want to have a Fuji apple tree on the site, but before buying a seedling, it is advisable to learn about the peculiarities of growing this crop.
Where Fuji apples grow
From the name of this apple variety, it is easy to guess that the plant is native to Japan. Varietal seedlings were obtained at the end of the 30s of the last century at the Tohoku selection research station, located in the Fujisaki village. The ancestors of Fuji apples are the old American varieties Red Delicious (Red Delicious) and Rawls Jennet (Rolls Janet). The planting material of this apple variety appeared in the public domain in 1962.
In addition to Japan, where Fuji apples are in great demand, the variety is widespread in the USA and China. In the United States, Fuji apples rank 3rd in terms of consumption, behind only Red Delicious and Gala. In Russia, the Fuji apple tree is successfully cultivated in the Krasnodar Territory and adjacent southern regions, and is actively developed in the vastness of central Russia.
Attention! Fuji is in the top 15 in the USA the best varieties apple trees.
Description of Fuji apple tree
Fuji trees are tall and can grow up to 6 m in height if vertical growth is not restrained by timely formative pruning. In the first few years, in a young apple tree, it is necessary to systematically shorten and cut out excess branches, otherwise the crown will quickly become shapeless and spreading. When correct pruning the tree will be neat and round, and will certainly become not only a source of delicious and useful fruitsbut also a garden decoration.
The bark of the Fuji apple tree has a light brown tint; with age, fine wrinkles appear on it. Young shoots are more brightly colored, they are smooth and shiny, with an insignificant number of lentils. The branches of the apple tree tend to grow in different directions, they are densely covered with juicy green, slightly pubescent, oval pointed leaves.
The Fuji apple tree is characterized by a late flowering period, which occurs in late April - early May. it great advantage in regions with a cool climate, since there is no danger that the ovaries will suffer from late frosts.
According to the practical experience of gardeners and their positive reviews, as well as the author's description of the variety, the Fuji apple tree is distinguished by average frost resistance and enviable drought resistance.
The characteristics of Fuji apples cause only positive emotions... The fruits have a regular rounded shape, painted in a rich red or dark pink color with yellowish strokes and dots. The wax coating on the skin is weak, the gloss is insignificant or absent at all. The weight of a Fuji apple reaches 200-250 g. The pulp is juicy and dense, crispy when bitten off, has a characteristic creamy honey tint.
Fuji belongs to the winter group, apples are picked in late autumn and at proper storage can lie until the end of spring, or even until the next harvest. Ideal places for the preservation of the appearance and taste - a refrigerator, cellar or basement. Fuji apples can be transported to long distances even in the cold season.
Taste qualities of Fuji apple variety
Fuji apples are loved and in demand due to their amazing taste. According to professional tasters, Fuji apples scored 4.5-4.8 points out of a possible 5. The taste, depending on the variety, varies from sweet to sweet and sour, sometimes there is a pleasant honey aroma. 100 g contains up to 11% sugar, calorie content is 71 kcal. 80% of the pulp of apples consists of water, the remaining 20% \u200b\u200bis fiber. Fuji's vitamin and mineral composition is represented by a wide range of substances beneficial to the body:
- vitamin C (ascorbic acid);
- vitamin A (retinol);
- b vitamins (B3, B5, B6, B9);
- iron;
- calcium;
- magnesium.
A warning! In the first 2 years of fruiting a young Fuji apple, the taste of apples may be less pronounced and mediocre.
The taste of Fuji apples directly depends on the growing area. In the south, apples will be more sugary and aromatic, and in the north, sourness is more pronounced.
Varieties of the Fuji apple tree
For the full ripening of Fuji apples, a large amount of sunny days... For this reason, the variety is not suitable for cultivation in the Central region of Russia, in the Republic of Belarus and the Northern regions of Ukraine. But geneticists found a way out and created a series of clones that ripen 2-3 weeks earlier than the original variety.
A clone is an exact copy of the mother plant, repeating its genotype and retaining all the genetic information of the original culture. However, due to natural radiation, ultraviolet influence sun rays, sharp changes temperatures and other similar external factors, even clones are prone to variability. Moreover, both for the worse (crushing fruits, reducing yields, susceptibility to diseases), and the better side (improving taste, accelerating the ripening process). It is the last, successful clones that are interesting for botanists, they are used in further clonal selection. As a result of many years of work, several varieties of Fuji apple trees were bred and fixed, described in detail below.
Fuji Aztec Apple Tree
Clone Aztec (Zen Aztec) - the brainchild of breeders from New Zealand, was bred in 1996 in Nelson. The tree is distinguished by high growth rates, periodic fruiting rhythm, extraordinary productivity. The only drawback of this variety of Fuji apple is the average resistance to scab.
Fuji Zen Aztec apples have an elegant, bright red color, the weight of the fruit sometimes reaches 200 g. They have a sweet, but not sugary taste, are considered dessert. The pulp is fragrant, delicate, firm and crunchy. The harvest period is mid-September. The fruits are perfectly transported and can be stored for up to 7 months.
Fuji Kiku apple tree
The selection of cloned Fuji Kiku-8 apple trees was carried out in South Tyrol. The result is more than impressive.
The Fuji Kiku apple tree has a broad-pyramidal medium-dense crown, strong growth and high yields. Like other varieties of Fuji, it needs third-party pollination. The Kiku clone is frost-hardy, capable of overwintering in mid-latitudes without special shelter. Unlike many late varieties has good immunity to various diseases.
According to gardeners, Fuji Kiku apples are the tastiest among this series of clones. Ruddy pink-red apples, weighing 200-250 g, are excellent for sale, they are grown on an industrial scale. Juicy tender creamy pulp has a sweet and sour taste with barely perceptible honey notes.
The ripening period for these apples is slightly longer than that of the Aztec, but the harvest can be harvested 3 weeks earlier than the parent Fuji. The peak of removable maturity occurs in mid-October. Fuji Kiku apples can be stored until the next harvest, that is, until next fall.
Yataka
This variety of Fuji was discovered by a Japanese breeder in September 1982, when, unlike other specimens of the variety, the apples on it turned red and poured almost a month ahead of schedule. The ripening dates of the Yataka apple tree are similar to the progenitor of Red Delicious. The clone has high yields, excellent taste qualities and good keeping quality, and transportability. The branches of this apple tree are often overloaded, so the ovaries must be thinned out in time. Yataka is recommended to be grown on semi-dwarf and dwarf stocks.
Fuji Yataka apples can weigh up to 350 g. Their thin skin has a carmine-red hue with thin intermittent light stripes. The pulp is white-creamy, firm and juicy. Apples can be eaten both fresh and prepared.
The negative side of growing Fuji Yataka can be infection with bacterial burns, powdery mildew, scab. In order to avoid such diseases, the garden where Fuji grows must be regularly treated with appropriate chemical preparations and strictly follow the rules of agricultural technology.
Japanese breeders bred a hybrid from Yataki called Beni Shogun. It is distinguished by its light green fruit color with a characteristic blush over the entire surface of the apple. Weight also reaches 350 g. In addition to excellent taste, the hybrid is not susceptible to cracking and tolerates prolonged negative temperatures well. Resistant to powdery mildew and rust, but prone to scab infestation.
Toshiro
Toshiro is another hardy clone of Fuji's apple tree. The tree is distinguished by strong growth, but readily lends itself to formative pruning. Harvesting begins at the end of September. The apples are sweet and sour, juicy, weighing up to 220 g. The peel is made in pink and red tones, light dots appear over the entire surface. Keeping quality, like other varieties of Fuji, is excellent. With prolonged storage (more than a month), the characteristic sourness disappears. According to experts and ordinary gardeners, Fuji Toshiro is weakly resistant to bacteriosis and powdery mildew.
Comment! Translated from Japanese, the word "toshiro" means "talented". This is a very common name in Japan.
Nagafu
Nagafu-8 or Red Fuji is a new clone developed by Japanese specialists. Compared to the original Fuji variety, it has a more intense raspberry-red color of the fruit and ripens faster for at least 2 weeks. Harvesting is carried out in late September - early October.
Apples are distinguished by a beautiful, even rounded-cylindrical shape and rich color. The pulp is not watery, juicy, fragrant, breaks off easily, contains an increased amount of sugar. The presentation and taste of Nagafu apples are preserved until next autumn. This variety of Fuji apple is a valuable commercial and market crop. At home, in Japan, Fuji apple trees occupy a very significant area of \u200b\u200bindustrial and private gardens.
Cancer-Cancer
This clone of Fuji blooms at the same time as Golden Delicious, requires an apple pollinator, otherwise there will be no ovaries on the tree. The trees are medium-sized with a spreading crown. Apples reach maturity towards the beginning of October. The fruits are large, round-cylindrical, unevenly executed in pink-red tones.
This variety of Fuji is distinguished by good frost resistance, good immunity to scab, however, it is often susceptible to powdery mildew.
Fujik
Fujik was bred by domestic specialists of the agricultural firm "Sad-Gigant" and was included in the State Register of Breeding Achievements of Russia in 2007. Recommended for cultivation in the North Caucasus region.
Fujik apple trees over the years of research have shown yields that are 25% higher than standard indicators. Apples are large enough - up to 260 g, golden yellow with pink blush, oval-rounded shape. The taste is harmonious, sweet and sour, tasting score - 4.8 points.
In addition to the clones listed above, other new varieties of Fuji are gaining popularity - Fubrax and September Wonder. It is also worth noting Fujion, created by breeders from Italy. It is distinguished by high resistance to diseases and pests, good resistance to drought and frost, excellent taste, estimated by experts at 5 points.
Pros and cons of the variety
No crop has a variety that fits the definition of ideal. Each plant is individual and has its own positive and negative qualities. Fuji's apple tree is no exception.
Variety advantages:
- late flowering period, excluding freezing of the ovaries;
- high productivity;
- ripe fruits are not prone to shedding;
- resistance to return frost;
- frost resistance up to -25 ° С;
- drought resistance;
- good transportability;
- long shelf life;
- versatility in use;
- excellent taste;
- presentable presentation.
Disadvantages:
- periodic fruiting cycle;
- intolerance to severe frosts;
- the need for pollination;
- the need to thin out the ovaries;
- average immunity to various diseases.
Optimal growing conditions
Only by creating good conditions for the apple tree can you get a rich harvest. Among others, the most important factors for successful growth and fruiting are:
- sufficient illumination;
- fertile breathable soil;
- timely watering and feeding;
- sanitary and formative pruning;
- mulching and weeding of the near-stem circle;
- thorough preparation for winter.
Planting and caring for the Fuji apple tree
Planting and growing a Fuji apple tree on the site is not difficult, given all the preferences of this variety. In return, it will delight the gardener with a generous harvest for many years.
Comment! The apple tree lives for about 50 years, after 30 the apples begin to shrink and their number decreases.
Selection and preparation of the landing site
A well-chosen place in the garden is one of the important factors in a rich harvest. The Fuji apple tree loves good light and grows best in open, sunny areas in the southern part of the garden. To obtain a high-quality and rich harvest, the tree should not be shaded during the period of active sun.
The Fuji apple tree prefers fertile loose soils with a high humus content. Neutral or slightly acidic soils with acidity values \u200b\u200bin the range of 6-6.5 pH are best suited. If the soil is clayey, when planting, be sure to make good drainage so that excess water does not stagnate.
Dig a hole 60 * 60 cm in advance, pour crushed stone on the bottom or broken brick, a layer of sand is laid on top. Before planting, 3-4 buckets of manure-peat mixture (1: 1) are placed in a hole under the apple tree.
Seedling preparation
Before planting, the roots of the seedling are dipped for several minutes in a 1% solution of copper sulfate in order to prevent diseases. The damaged areas of the root system are removed clean sharp knife or pruning shears, the cuts can be sprinkled with crushed coal. Too long roots are also pruned.
Comment! Fuji apple tree seedlings, grafted onto a dwarf rootstock, begin to bear fruit 1-2 years earlier than their medium-sized counterparts.
Landing rules
Fuji apple trees can be planted both in spring and autumn, usually such work is carried out in April and October. It is important to consider climatic conditions region, so that before the first serious frosts, the seedlings have time to take root well. Seedlings with a closed root system can also be planted in summer. The apple planting algorithm is shown in the photo below.
Watering and feeding
Regular watering is one of the basic requirements in Fuji apple tree farming. With a lack of moisture in the soil, apples will be small and tasteless. Young seedlings must be watered at least 6 times during the growing season.
For successful growth, the apple tree needs timely introduction of mineral and organic fertilizers... In the spring, the Fuji apple tree is fed with nitrogen-containing agents at the rate of 20 g / 1 m². In the fall under mature tree make:
- rotted manure - 5-7 kg;
- potash fertilizer - 30 g;
- phosphorus fertilizer - 100 g.
Pruning
Crown formation young tree start by choosing the strongest and strongest shoot, which will be the central conductor, other branches are removed. The skeletal part of the Fuji apple tree is formed according to a sparse-tiered system:
- stem height - 50-80 cm;
- the distance between tiers 1 and 2 is 60-80 cm;
- the distance between tiers 2 and 3 is 30-40 cm.
The number of branches in the first tier should not exceed 5 pieces, in the second - no more than 3-4, in the third - 2-3.
Important! The largest number ovaries are formed on fruit branches of the last year, therefore, when pruning, at least 50% of the annual growth is left.
At the age of 5, the crown of the Fuji apple tree is considered fully formed. In subsequent years, only sanitary and corrective pruning is required. Before the start of sap flow (in February-April), dry and frozen branches, as well as those that grow inside the crown, are removed on the apple tree. The rest of the shoots are cut by 1/3. If the annual growth is less than 15 cm, it's time to rejuvenate the apple tree. To do this, remove large old branches and shorten the lateral shoots more strongly, this stimulates the apple tree to grow new shoots.
Preparing for winter
In order to provide the Fuji apple tree with a comfortable wintering, moisture-charging irrigation is carried out in the autumn period, the near-stem circle is mulched, lower part tied with spruce branches to protect against hares and mice. It is especially necessary to prepare young seedlings of the Fuji apple tree with a poorly developed root system for winter.
Pollination
This variety is not self-pollinated, therefore, other apple trees must be planted in order to harvest in the garden. The varieties are ideal:
- Red Delicious;
- Golden;
- Everest;
- Gala;
- Ligol;
- Granny Smith;
- Pinova;
- Idared;
- Ruby.
The Fuji apple tree itself is diploid, that is, it can also pollinate other varieties. Fruiting is periodic.
Yield
Fuji's apple tree is high-yielding variety with a periodic rhythm of fruiting. At 1 year, the tree brings an excessively plentiful harvest and is depleted, and the next season it does not have enough vitality and it practically does not form ovaries. In order for the Fuji apple tree to bear fruit annually with an average yield, some of the ovaries are removed in a timely manner.
Important! It is on apple trees with an average yield that the most useful fruits ripen.
With an excessive harvest, the amount nutrients in the pulp decreases, with a poor harvest in very large apples, the percentage of sugar rises, they lose keeping quality and are poorly transported.
Diseases and pests
The Fuji apple tree does not have an enviable immunity to different kinds diseases and pests. Most frequent problems culture:
- scab;
- powdery mildew;
- fire blight (bacteriosis);
- aphids (especially in the southern regions).
To secure planting, regular chemical treatments are required:
- For scab, trees are treated with a 1% solution of Bordeaux liquid (100 g / 10 l).
- Prevention of powdery mildew and bacterial infections involves spraying with a solution of copper sulfate (100 g / 10 l).
- You can get rid of aphids by treating the apple trees with Nitrafen (200 g / 10 l).
Important! All procedures must be carried out in early spring before bud break.
To prevent sunburn, pest and rodent control The trunk and skeletal branches of the Fuji apple tree are whitewashed three times a season. Clay or glue, DDT and antifungal agents are added to the creamy lime solution.
Fuji apples belong to exotic options, as they were bred in Japan. This fruit appeared thanks to the crossing of 2 other varieties: Delicious and Rolls Janet. The fruits are winter varieties. Today you can find other varieties of this fruit: Kiku, Fujik, etc.
Round-shaped fruits have a red-crimson color (see photo). Fuji is a variety of apples that have a wonderful sweet taste and juicy pulp. During storage, the slight acidity disappears completely, and the fruits become quite tasty (this is confirmed by numerous reviews about this variety).
Storage and transportation
Fuji apples are harvested at the end of autumn, and under normal conditions they will retain their consuming ability for 4 months. If you put the fruits in the refrigerator, then the time is extended until the beginning of May. Fuji apples perfectly tolerate long-term transportation.
Beneficial features
Fuji apples, which are low in calories, can be eaten during the period of weight loss, as well as with obesity. The fruit contains potassium, which takes part in the metabolism, and it also normalizes the active cardiovascular system. This reduces the risk of heart disease, for example, heart attack, stroke, etc.
This grade contains compounds that do not allow blood sugar levels to jump... For example, quercetin has the ability to break down sugar, and it also stimulates the absorption of glucose in cells. Eat in Fuji apples alimentary fiberwhich normalize cholesterol levels in blood. In addition, they cleanse the intestines and normalize the activity of the digestive system.
Included in this fruit and ascorbic acid, which strengthens and increases the immune system and protective functions of the body. Thanks to the content of vitamin A, metabolism is normalized, and it also takes part in the formation of bones and improves vision. There are also B vitamins in Fuji apples, which have a positive effect on activity nervous systemthus helping to get rid of stress, irritation, insomnia, etc.
Cooking use
Fuji apples can be consumed both fresh and processed. The fruit is often used in the preparation of various baked goods and as a filling. The fruits are put into salads to add flavor to the final dish.
The harm of Fuji apples and contraindications
Fuji apples can be harmful to people with individual intolerance, although this is quite rare.
The Fuji apple variety has long been a leader in private and industrial gardening. This is one of the most successful developments of Japanese breeders, which has not left the top ten world varieties for many decades. Despite its exotic origin, Fuji is perfectly adapted to low temperatures, therefore it can be grown in central Russia. And the highest varietal characteristics made it possible to use it for further breeding work as a result of which new hybrids were born - the Fuji Kiku apple tree, Fujik, Fuji Aztec and others.
Fuji's late apple variety was bred at the beginning of the last century, so the description of the variety should start with history. And so, Fuji is a hybrid of two very noble varieties: Red Delicious and Rolls Janet, which Japanese breeders found most suitable for creating new fruits of extraordinary beauty and taste. The hybrid was obtained in 1920 in the Japanese province of Fujisaki, from which it got its name. The variety turned out to be so successful that it soon spread in the gardens of Western Europe, the USA, and then around the world.
The Fuji apple tree is medium to high. If the tree is not restricted in growth, it reaches a height of 6 m, but with proper formative pruning it usually has a small (3-4 m) height and a regular rounded crown. The trunk and main branches are light brown with a gray tint, young shoots are lighter, the bark is slightly wrinkled. Leaves are even lanceolate-oval, young leaves are noticeably pubescent. Apple trees bloom late - at the end of May, so they rarely suffer from spring frosts.
The fruits have an exceptional presentation. They are very large (200-250 g), regular round shape, slightly widened at the stalk. The surface of the peel is even, smooth, completely covered with a bright raspberry blush. The pulp is creamy, juicy, very aromatic. But the special value of the variety lies in its delicious dessert taste, which, as it ripens, changes from sweet and sour to honey, without the slightest sour aftertaste.
Main characteristics
The apple tree belonging to the Fuji variety is winter. The fruits reach the removable ripeness by the end of October, and the consumer ripeness - in another month. A distinctive feature of the variety is its high yield. Trees enter fruiting early - 2-3 years after planting. The first two harvests may not meet expectations for the number and taste of the fruit, but then the apple tree reaches its bloom and pleases with very sweet, high quality apples. There is some periodicity in fruiting - every second year is more productive than the previous one.
Trees have good stability to frost and drought. This characteristic allows Fuji apples to be grown in both southern and temperate climates with long frosty winters. It is also worth noting good (medium) resistance to scab, but very low immunity to fire blight and powdery mildew.
Growing and care
Fuji apple trees are capable of self-pollination, however, planting nearby varieties such as Ligol, Golden, Grani Smith, Gala will help increase the yield and quality of the fruits. Apple tree seedlings should be planted in a sunny area with good fertile soil - in this case, the apples will be brighter and sweeter. It is very important for the health of the tree to avoid waterlogging of the soil and air.
Basic apple care includes the following activities:
- crop normalization (removal of excess ovary);
- loosening and mulching of near-trunk circles;
- watering in hot weather;
- seasonal top dressing: in spring - nitrogen mixture (20 g / m²), in autumn - phosphorus 110 g, potassium 30 g, manure 4–6 kg (applied to the trunk circle);
- crown formation.
Young trees up to 2 years old need to spud the bole for the winter to prevent the roots from freezing.
Harvesting and storage
Fruit collection is not carried out before the middle October, or even later. Since apples need to lie down for about a month to fully ripen, they can be left on the tree until the first frosts - after the leaves fall, the apple tree, hung with bright large fruits, looks especially decorative. Fuji variety is intended for long-term storage... Even under normal storage conditions, the fruits are perfectly stored for 4–5 months, and when kept in the cold, their marketable and taste qualities are preserved until the next harvest, which allows apples to be grown commercially.
Diseases and pests
When proper care, including preventive treatments, almost always, it is possible to save and harvest the crop. In the spring, during the budding of the apple tree, it is necessary to spray with 3% Bordeaux liquid - this measure will avoid damage to scab and fungal diseases (powdery mildew). To improve immunity, it is recommended to treat trees with a urea solution (50 g / 10 l of water) immediately after flowering.
Apple trees grown in hot regions are often damaged by aphids. These insects do not directly harm the fruit, since they feed on the sap of the leaves, but their activity significantly weakens the tree, which affects the yield. To combat aphids, a solution of nitrophene (300 g / 10 l of water) is effective, as well as any universal insecticides. Spraying is carried out at the beginning of the growing season, and then before flowering.
Pros and cons
Of the disadvantages of the variety, only the susceptibility of trees to infectious and fungal diseases, as well as irregular fruiting, can be noted. But the variety has much more advantages:
- excellent resistance to drought and frost, allowing apples to be grown in a temperate climate with all its features;
- excellent presentation of apples, preservation and transportability;
- high taste and balanced composition of fruits.
These qualities make Fuji one of the best on the list of leaders for commercial cultivation, as evidenced by numerous praise from consumers and gardeners around the world.
Video "Review of winter varieties of apple trees"
In this video, you will learn about the varieties of autumn-winter varieties of apple trees.
Fuji apple variety was bred by Japanese breeders by crossing Rale Janet and Red Delicious. The hybrid appeared in 1939.
The variety ripens only at the end of September, therefore it belongs to the winter, apples are stored very well. This direction is in high demand in Japan; today it is actively cultivated in Krasnodar. Due to its high resistance to frost, Fuji can be grown in regions with any climatic conditions.
Red clones of the variety are also known - these are Kiku and Fujik. The difficulty of growing the direction is average. The fruit can be eaten fresh and after processing.
Characteristics of the variety
The vigorous Fuji trees are distinguished by high yields and an unusual cyclicity of fruiting - the maximum yields of the apple tree bark in a year. To somehow stabilize the situation, gardeners recommend thinning the ovaries. The crown is thick, beautiful, and lends itself well to molding. The variety belongs to winter hardy, grows best in sunny areas and fertile soils.
It is best to avoid waterlogging and drying out of the soil. But the disease resistance of the variety is low, so regular preventive treatments are important.
Fuji's first two crops do not always taste good. At the same time, the most delicate are the fruits of bright color.
- Pollinating varieties and self-fertility. The variety is self-fertile, therefore it requires additional pollination. The most correct option is the neighborhood with pollinating crops. The main varieties are Champion, Lobo, Antonovka, etc.
- Fuji trees are tall the branches are thickened and need regular pruning. Shoots are actively developing before the plants enter the fruiting phase, because the growth slows down.
- The trunk is thick, powerful and crusty. Skeletal branches are developed, pruning is not particularly difficult, but the main thing is to follow the rules for its implementation - otherwise the haircut may become main reason crop losses. Sensitivity to temperature extremes is high.
- The fruits of the Fuji apple tree are large, red-crimson, round. The pulp is juicy, the taste is sweet. A slight acidity may be present immediately after collection, which disappears after storage.
- High winter hardiness, therefore, the variety is grown not only in the middle lane, but also in the northern regions.
- Features of the root system. Root rod like everyone else fruit trees well-developed, large and branched root system. It is for this reason that the distance between trees during planting should be significant (from 2-3 meters)
- The variety has a high yield. The fruits are harvested at the end of October, while they reach full maturity only after a month of storage (the taste becomes more intense, dessert). Subject to the conditions of agricultural technology, trees retain their viability for a long time - no replacement is required for 20 years. If you do not form the ovaries, then the culture will actively bear fruit in a year.
- Fuji has medium scab resistance and is susceptible to other diseases. To minimize the risks of infection, plant trees in the sun and regularly treat with preparations containing copper ( effective measures against bacterial burn). It is recommended to uproot trees affected by fire blight to prevent the spread of infection to all other trees. Young crops most often suffer from scab, which are recommended to be sprayed with Bordeaux liquid for prevention purposes. From aphids in the spring they use perthroids, in the summer months - phosphoorganics. Also, for the purpose of prevention, you can lower the roots of the seedlings for a minute in a solution of copper sulfate, and then rinse with water.
Planting, growing care
Compliance with the rules of planting and care is the key to the successful growth of Fuji apple trees. The presence of pollinating varieties is very desirable, otherwise the yield will be much lower than it could be. The basic requirements are the same as for other fruit trees.
Landing
Fuji apple trees are planted as seedlings on the eastern slopes and well-lit places (in the lowlands, the variety grows poorly). It is best to do the procedure in the spring, but you can postpone it to autumn - the main thing is to have time before the onset of cold weather. There can be a lot of sun at the landing site in summer, protection is required (it avoids burns). The absence of gusty winds is desirable, since they negatively affect the survival of the plant, its life cycle and productivity indicators.
Timing, technology and scheme
Planting is carried out in early April or late September, October. The main condition for the normal rooting of seedlings is the absence of frost. Landing pit preparation rules:
- Before transferring the seedling (one week) fill it with soil with humus, peat, manure.
- When the hole is two-thirds full of nutritious family, seal it well.
- Lower the seedling into the prepared place so that the neck of the root is located above the supporting surface. Be sure to spread the roots.
- Make garter to the support.
Apple trees will grow better and faster if fertilizer is added to the hole when planting.
What to grow from better. Distance between trees
For the cultivation of Fuji apple trees, it is recommended to use fresh, quality seedlings. Best performance they have two years of growth - they develop well and bear fruit quickly. Planting material buy only in nurseries or proven specialized centers - otherwise no one can guarantee its quality. Examine the root system carefully - the shoots should be strong and free from sagging, stains, mold, any other defects of damage. Ideally, the roots should be dry, and the height of the seedling should not exceed half a meter. Very tall specimens should not be taken, because they take root much worse. Count the skeletal branches before buying - normally there should be up to five. When autumn plantings the foliage is removed, the roots are treated with a clay mash (otherwise they begin to dry out). Leave 2-3 m between trees between rows, 1-1.5 m will be enough in rows.
Care
Apple trees Fuji give high yields, the main thing is to follow the rules of caring for them:
Top dressing
In the first year after transferring the seedlings to the ground, no fertilizing is required (the fertilizers that you used to prepare the hole will be enough), then you can start decisive action. Best of all, the culture perceives the combined ready-made fertilizers with minerals. In order to use them to give maximum results, add them after mulching, loosening, digging holes, removing weeds. In November, the plants are watered abundantly, fertilizers are no longer applied. Always look at the proportions - an excess of nutrients is just as bad as a lack of them.
Ripening and storage of fruits. Rejuvenation
Fuji is a late autumn ripening variety. Small apples reach full removable maturity at the end of October, but exact dates can be said only taking into account the climatic area where the crop is grown, as well as the characteristics of agricultural technology. The shelf life of the fruits is long, so that they lie as long as possible and do not spoil, use apples without damaging the skin, put them in the refrigerator or cellar (you need a cool damp place).
Without special conditions, apples retain their taste for about 4 months, they can stay in the refrigerator until May. The variety tolerates transportation well.
Rejuvenation measures include planned pruning, abundant watering, loosening, mulching of soils. Rejuvenation of mature trees must be done so that they remain viable for as long as possible and give high yields.
Pruning
Fuji's apple tree grows much better if done regular pruning... In the early years, pruning is easy, aimed at creating an aesthetically pleasing crown. In the spring, before budding begins, part of the shoots is always shortened. With abundant fruiting, the pruning is increased - the apple tree will not particularly suffer from this, but there will be no too small fruits. In the future, as the plant actively grows and fructifies, it will be possible to remove more unnecessary branches - this way you will improve the appearance of the tree. In the second year and further, one-year-olds are cut to the same length.
With age, crowning begins to be carried out to prevent the formation of unnecessary ovaries.
What regions is the variety more adapted to
Fuji's level of winter hardiness is sufficient to grow apples of the variety in industrial regions. A significant part of the plantings falls on the Krasnodar Territory, this culture is found in other regions. Main condition good growth and active fruiting of apple trees - compliance with the rules of agricultural technology, timely pruning, loosening the soil, feeding, sufficient watering... It is recommended to cover plantings for the winter, otherwise the ovaries may die. Otherwise, the same requirements are imposed on the cultivation and growing conditions of the Fuji variety as for other winter crops.
The Fuji variety is diploid, so it is an excellent pollinator for other plants.
Video
Video about the Fuji Kiku apple tree.
findings
- Fuji is a prolific high-growth variety. In order for it to bear fruit equally well every year, it is necessary to form the ovaries.
- High resistance to frost, therefore, the culture grows normally in regions with harsh climatic conditions.
- The landing pattern is standard, you can do it in spring or autumn. Since the root system is branchy, you need to leave sufficient distance between the trees.
- Taste qualities of apples Fuji are excellent and are best eaten fresh. In the refrigerator, the fruits lie in the flesh until May.
- The variety is prone to infection with scab, rot, fire blight. Preventive treatments are recommended.