Apricots are popular trees among gardeners that do not require much effort to grow. The only drawback of the culture is poor resistance to frost. Growing the Limonka apricot variety will not cause any trouble even to residents of cool regions; the plant has excellent hardiness and resistance to frost.
History of selection
The appearance of the variety occurred spontaneously. An apricot was created on the basis of a seedling, which was distinguished by some characteristics that attracted the breeders of the Moscow station.The variety was bred not so long ago - at the end of the last century. Thanks to its durability, endurance, and unpretentiousness, it quickly gained popularity among gardeners.
Description of the variety
The description of the variety should begin with the characteristics of the tree. The crown of the plant is spreading; shoots react negatively to pruning. The height of the Limonka apricot is up to 3 m.
Fruits up to 80 g, bright shade. The pulp is juicy and dense. The variety received its name precisely because of the fruits; the color completely replicates the shade of citrus.
Features of cultivation
Growing the crop is not difficult to cope with - you don’t have to comply with any special agricultural technology requirements. The main thing is to choose high-quality planting material, select the most comfortable site, and prepare the soil mixture.
Selection of seedlings
It is recommended to purchase planting material from trusted sellers or nurseries with an impeccable reputation. Carefully inspect the root shoots; if there are dry spots or rot, it is better to refuse the purchase.
Soil preparation
The soil for planting apricot Limonka is light and nutritious. It is recommended to prepare a mixture of sand, turf, and leaf soil. For sandstones, add compost and clay. Apply a mulch layer after planting the tree.
Care instructions
Limonka does not have any special care requirements. It is important to maintain regular watering, promptly shorten shoots, and remove branches affected by diseases and weather conditions.
Watering
Moisten the soil only in hot weather. During the period of fruit set, pay special attention to the soil - lack of moisture will cause small apricots. An adult plant will need up to 12 liters of water. Be sure to use warm liquid.
Trimming
Pruning should be done before winter cold snaps. Lemon does not tolerate surgery well, so it is recommended only to shorten long branches, forming a compact crown.
In the spring, repeat the process - remove dry shoots damaged by wind and frost.
Taste characteristics
The taste of Limonka apricot is a combination of sweetness and pleasant sourness. The pulp has a delicate texture and a bright aroma. The stone is easily separated, the core is recommended for use in cooking - the taste is sweet and pleasant.
Diseases and prevention
Apricot Limonka is often affected by fungal diseases. Diseases caused by fungal spores can destroy the entire crop. The lack of disease control affects the winter hardiness of the variety; the variety will not survive severe frosts.
It is recommended to fight the fungus with Bordeaux mixture or its analogues. Irrigate plants from spring until the ovaries appear. In the fall, carry out preventive treatment. Timely spraying of the tree will help cope with the disease and prevent damage to the apricot.
The most common pest that affects the plant is the gall midge. Insects penetrate the buds, which quickly dry out. A colony of pests can destroy an entire crop.
Spring treatment with Karbofos will help prevent pest invasion. Collecting and burning affected buds will also help significantly reduce the population and the risk of crop loss.
Apricot Limonka is a tree that delights beginners and experienced gardeners. Simple care, minimum requirements, unpretentiousness are part of the positive qualities of the crop that every garden owner likes so much. The tree will thank you for your care and attention with juicy, sweet fruits, which are used in cooking, for preservation, or simply eaten fresh.
