Apple tree (Malus domestica) LIGITA

Apple (Malus domestica) 'Ligita'

A Latvian winter variety with comprehensive disease resistance and very good storability.

'Ligita' is a Latvian winter apple variety, valued for its comprehensive disease resistance, including resistance to scab (Vf gene). It is characterized by very good storability, a good yield, and attractive fruits with a good, very aromatic flavour. It requires fruit thinning to achieve good fruit size.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Comprehensive disease resistance.
• Very good storability (5–6 months).
• Attractive appearance of the fruits.
• Good, very aromatic flavour.
• Easily trainable crown.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Latvia
• Institution: Institute of Horticulture
• Crossing: ‘Alkmene’ × scab resistance donor (Vf donor)
• Registration: Registered and protected in Latvia since 2009.

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Growth: Medium-vigorous, branches very well.
• Crown: Very easy to shape.

Fruit

• Size: Small to medium-sized.
• Shape and colour: Globular, slightly conical. Bright yellow with orange stripes or a solid blush.
• Skin: Firm.
• Flesh: Yellow, crisp, juicy.
• Flavour: Good, sweet-tart, very aromatic.
• Use: Versatile.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost resistance: Good.
• Disease resistance: Thanks to the Vf gene (Rvi6), it is resistant to scab. It also has very good resistance to mildew, fruit rot, and canker.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Requires fruit thinning to achieve good size.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Late (a few days before the 'Spartan' variety).
• Storability: Very long, 5–6 months in a regular cellar (until March-April).
• Yield: Good, but with a slight tendency to alternate bearing.
• Harvest characteristics: The fruits are firmly attached to the tree and do not drop.