Columnar apple tree (Malus domestica) MOSKOVSKOE OZHERELIE

Columnar Apple (Malus domestica) 'Moskovskoe Ozherelie'

A Russian columnar variety with high frost resistance and very early entry into bearing.

'Moskovskoe Ozherelie' (Московское Ожерелье) is a Russian winter columnar apple variety, valued for its low maintenance, high frost resistance (down to -42 °C), and disease resistance. It is characterized by a very early entry into bearing, high and annual yield, and the production of large, attractive fruits with a good dessert flavour. Thanks to its compact growth and decorative appearance, it is ideal for small gardens.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Low maintenance.
• High resistance to diseases and frost.
• Regular yield and very early entry into bearing.
• Compact and decorative growth.
• Good transportability.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Russia
• Breeder: M. V. Kachalkin
• Institution: Information not available.
• Crossing: Information not available.
• Registration: Information not available.

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Growth: Medium, grows to a height of 2 – 3 m.
• Crown: Columnar, compact, dense.
• Flowering: Early May. The flowers are white-pink.
• Pollination: It is cross-pollinated.

Fruit

• Size and weight: Large, with a weight of 130 – 250 g.
• Shape and colour: Round. Almost the entire surface is covered with a dark red colour.
• Skin: Thin, firm, glossy.
• Flesh: White-creamy, fine-grained, juicy.
• Flavour: Dessert, sweet with a mild acidity.
• Use: Versatile (fresh consumption, processing).

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost resistance: Very high (down to -42 °C), but the terminal buds can be damaged by prolonged frosts.
• Disease resistance: High, almost not affected by scab.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Suitable pollinators include ‘Vasyugan’, ‘Prezident’.
• Has a shorter productive lifespan.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Late September to early October.
• Storability: Until January, in a refrigerator until March.
• Yield: High and annual, 6–10 kg per tree.
• Entry into bearing: Very early, 1st to 2nd year after planting.