Description and characteristics of the columnar apple tree of the Ostankino variety, planting and care

Columnar-shaped apple trees differ from their counterparts in that they do not have side shoots. Apart from this fact, no serious shortcomings were identified. The size of the apples is more than compensated by their characteristic, rich taste. The pulp is white, juicy. And the yield from trees of this variety is beyond praise. Therefore, columnar apple trees of the Ostankino variety are welcome guests in garden plots and dachas.

The history of the appearance of the Ostankino apple tree

The variety appeared almost by accident. The circumstances of its breeding are as follows: in the mid-60s of the last century, a gardener from Canada named McIntosh (by an amazing coincidence, this is the name of a common variety of apples) noticed an old tree literally strewn with fruits. The branch on which they grew was devoid of side branches.

The observant breeder had to cut cuttings from the “wrong” apple tree in order to then graft them. The new species was called columnar. And the Ostankino hybrid was independently bred in the USSR after crossing the existing varieties Obilnoe and Vozhak.

Advantages and disadvantages

The Ostankino apple tree is productive, drought-resistant, requires moderate lighting and watering, and is not afraid of windy, open spaces. If we summarize the main advantages of the variety, we get the following list:

1. Compactness.
2. Productivity.
3. Excellent taste.
4. Exceptional frost resistance.

In addition, when choosing columnar apple tree seedlings, gardeners can count on protection from pests, productivity, early maturity, and suitability for transportation. The fruits of Ostankino are juicy, strong and tasty. And there are practically no obvious shortcomings.

The variety is cultivated without problems in the Moscow region, Samara, and Perm regions.Recommended for both chernozem and non-chernozem zones. In Ukraine, with its milder climate, it grows almost everywhere. It can even grow in the Urals and Siberia, where frosts often drop significantly below zero.

general information

The apple tree is practically devoid of lateral branches, hence its name - columnar. It has a single trunk with a vertical orientation. The variety was first bred by specialists from the Institute of Horticulture (author of the selection - V.V. Kichina) in 1974. Registered in the State Register since 2002. Productivity is high. The weight of the fruit reaches 200 grams. These are, in brief, the main characteristics of the species.

External parameters

When describing an apple tree, attention is paid to 2 points: the height of the tree and fruiting. Despite its compact, literally dwarf size, Ostankino produces a harvest on par with “adult” varieties. The fruits on the trunk are arranged tightly, starting at a distance of 30-40 centimeters from ground level.

Dimensions of an adult apple tree

When the tree grows, its height reaches 2 meters, rarely exceeding this mark. The appearance of the apple tree and its compact size turn from a disadvantage into an advantage in small garden plots.

Annual growth

On average, the growth of a tree in length is 5-10 centimeters when the plant bears fruit intensively. On the columnar trunk, specific ring and spear-shaped thickenings are formed, from which buds later develop.

Lifespan

After just a couple of years, the apple tree reaches its greatest growth. Ostankino's trunk is straight, strong enough to withstand sharp gusts of wind in open areas. Fruiting and lifespan last up to 14 years. During this time, gardeners will be able to collect a lot of sweet, juicy apples.In the 15th year, the planting of apple trees will have to be renewed.

Wood stability

No wonder they say: small but remote. The apple tree not only successfully withstands gusts of wind, but also has other advantages. It is not for nothing that the Ostankino variety is popular among summer residents. The species is unpretentious, almost not susceptible to diseases or attacks from garden pests.

Frost

When developing a new variety, breeders had no idea what advantages were hidden in it. Ostankino very successfully withstands cold weather and is not afraid of severe Siberian frosts. Although they created it for the Moscow region.

Drought

The columnar apple tree is resistant to insufficient watering, even short-term droughts. Rather, it will react negatively to waterlogged soil.

High humidity

This apple tree variety does not like waterlogged soil. In combination with frost, this factor will lead to damage to the shoots, especially young ones. Stagnation of liquid in the soil is more dangerous for Ostankino than its lack.

Diseases and insects

The species has satisfactory resistance to typical diseases, such as brown spot. But you will need protection from powdery mildew and scab. Among the pests that are dangerous to the plant are the apple blossom beetle and weevil. In general, the variety has high resistance to external threats.

Features of ripening and fruiting

Ostankino has characteristic features of the growing season. These include:

1. Varieties that pollinate apple trees.
2. Terms of fruiting of young animals.
3. Harvest time.

Knowing these criteria for breeding garden trees, it will be easier to achieve the desired result.

Pollinator varieties

It is considered a self-pollinating species. When planted next to the Obilnoe variety, a stable, high-quality hybrid is obtained.

What year does a young tree bear fruit?

A mature apple tree planted in early spring will begin to bear fruit in the first year.But experienced gardeners recommend not to rush into tasting, but to collect the inflorescences. But after such a procedure, the tree will bear fruit steadily.

Timing of flowering and harvest ripening

The formation of inflorescences of the columnar apple tree occurs in the spring. According to the fruiting period, the variety belongs to the September variety. At the end of the month, fragrant, juicy apples ripen.

Tasting evaluation of apple trees

Gardeners positively evaluate the taste qualities of the Ostankino variety, highlighting the sweetness and moderate hardness of the white pulp. Strong, bright red, sometimes turning into a lilac tone, the peel, in general, does not affect the tasting properties. But it ensures the safety of apples during transportation.

Collection and use of apples

The fruits of the columnar apple tree are harvested in the fall, using mainly in their natural, raw form. Other varieties are suitable for canning, preserves, jams.

How to plant and grow a columnar apple tree

According to existing agricultural technology, the Ostankino variety is propagated by seedlings. The optimal time for the process is autumn - September or October. Experienced gardeners advise planting an apple tree no later than 15-20 days before the first frost. The result is influenced by many little things, including the choice of location, seedling (must be from a trusted seller), with a well-developed, undamaged root system. After planting, do not forget about fertilizing.

In what areas is landing possible?

Non-chernozem zones are suitable, as well as places more favorable for growing apple trees. These are Moscow and the region, Siberia, the Urals, and the Northeast. Samara, Perm and their surrounding regions are also suitable for the Ostankino variety.

Required soil composition

Depleted, sandy soils are not suitable for Ostankino. In this case, fertilizing is necessary.This is humus, humus, compost. Complex fertilizers are also suitable. In black earth regions, seedlings will take root better.

Disembarkation dates and scheme

Most gardeners recommend autumn for planting. In order for the trees in the garden to fully develop without interfering with each other, they are planted according to the following scheme: the distance between the rows is 90-110 centimeters, the step is from 40 to 60.

Watering frequency

Proper tree care includes proper watering. In dry periods it is more frequent, when air humidity rises - less often. On average, this is 5 times a season. Fruit-bearing plants require more water. Moisture-saturated soils require adjustment of the parameter.

Fertilizer

The first time the tree is fertilized is when planting. Then the apple tree is regularly fed with nitrogen complexes. For 1 year - in May, then - a month later. It is important not to overdo it: excess fertilizer is just as harmful as too little.

Loosening the soil

Loosening and mulching are beneficial for the tree. We carry out these procedures regularly, ensuring soil permeability and enrichment with oxygen.

Pruning and crown formation

Ostankino does not have a crown as such. But pruning is still necessary. It is carried out before the juices begin to flow. Dry or damaged shoots must be removed. During the pruning process, they try to maintain the columnar shape of the plant.

Seasonal preventive treatments

The Ostankino variety apple tree requires regulatory treatment against garden pests. Specific dates are tied to periods of insect activity. Both complex and targeted drugs are used. This is approximately early spring, when the buds begin to bloom.

Preparing for winter

Before hibernation, remove any remaining foliage from the apple tree and prune it (if necessary).In cold regions, it is allowed to mulch the plant, even cover the stem, and protect the columnar apple tree from freezing.