- Authors: Abdeeva M.G., Litvinova V.M. (FGBNU Ufa Federal Research Center RAS)
- Appeared when crossing: pollination of the Large variety with a mixture of pollen from the Bredthorpe and Khludovskaya varieties
- Name synonyms: Valovaya
- Year of approval: 1998
- Ripening terms: early ripening
- Growth type: medium-sized
- Yield: high
- Appointment: universal
- Berry weight, g: 1,4
- Tasting assessment: 4
The Valovaya currant variety is considered a worthy representative of this species, despite the fact that there is a huge variety of black currant varieties. The fruit culture has taken root remarkably in the dacha plots and in the gardens of the Russians.
Description of the variety
Medium-sized shrubs grow up to 110-120 centimeters in height. These are vigorously spreading plants with medium density. The thickness of the growing shoots is medium, the color is light green, there is no pubescence, and the already lignified shoots turn brown, also medium in thickness.
The branches are covered with leaves of a standard currant shape, consisting of three or five lobes. The color is deep green. The surface is covered with small wrinkles, matte. The leaf plates are medium in size, slightly convex. During flowering, the shrub is covered with large saucer-shaped flowers, the sepals are bright pink. The brushes are slightly drooping, sinuous and long. The length of one brush is from 8 to 10 centimeters.
The currant has excellent winter hardiness, thanks to which the variety can be planted in areas with a cool climate. The Valovaya variety has taken root even in Siberia. And also shrubs can boast of strong immunity to fungal infections.
Characteristics of berries
The color of ripe berries is dark and rich, almost black. The shape is round, the size is large. The weight of one berry is 1.4 grams. The fruits are covered with a glossy skin, medium in thickness. A dense pulp is hidden inside. The separation is dry. Seeds are formed in small numbers.
The crop has excellent commercial qualities, such as attractive appearance and strong aroma. The berries tolerate long-term transportation without any problems. Due to the above qualities, the Valovaya variety is often grown commercially.
Taste qualities
The wonderful taste of the fruit intelligently combines sweetness and sourness. The amount of acids - 1.9%, sugar - 11.5%, vitamin C - 97 mg /%. The use of fruits is universal. Tasters' assessment - 4 points out of 5.
Ripening and fruiting
The ripening dates are early. Berries begin to be harvested from the second decade of June. The currants are removed approximately 35-40 days after the beginning of flowering. The exact time depends on the weather.
Yield
The yield is noted as high. On average, 3.7 kilograms of berries are harvested from one shrub. On an industrial scale, they receive 61 centners or 12 tons per hectare. In favorable climatic conditions, the Valovaya variety boasts rich and regular fruiting.
Landing
The process of planting shrubs is simple, but it has certain features. If you do not take them into account, the currants may not take root. You need to plant only high-quality seedlings purchased from reliable and trusted sellers. Black berry tolerates slight shading without any problems.
The shrubs of this variety are medium in height, but due to the spreading nature, the plant needs a sufficient amount of free space on the site.The optimal distance is at least two meters from each other. Such an interval will allow you to conveniently care for the currants and will allow the fruit crop to develop comfortably.
The quality of the soil has a significant impact on life. If there is depleted soil on the site, you need to thoroughly fertilize it. A portion of the nutrient components is placed in the planting hole. Two handfuls of superphosphate, a bucket of humus, half a handful of potassium salt and a shovel of wood ash are sent into the hole. All of the listed ingredients are mixed.
The optimal size of the landing pit is 50x50 centimeters. A side is installed next to it, which will retain moisture during watering. During the planting process, you need to thoroughly water the plant. The ground around the bush is covered with mulch. And also planting is carried out on 2-3 kidneys. Currants are planted in spring or autumn.
Growing and care
If you take good care of the fruit crop, the plant actively develops and takes root quickly. The next year after planting, you can already taste the first berries. The main components of agricultural technology are regular weeding and moderate watering.
When using any fertilizers, you need to be careful and avoid overdosing. Organic compounds are used every three years, but mineral dressings can be used every year. In this case, you must clearly adhere to the recommendation. Mineral preparations are applied in the spring.
If you take good care of the shrubs, they can live up to 25 years. Correct pruning can contribute to this. Sanitization is carried out as needed.
The plant forms during the first 5 years after transplanting. With the onset of spring, pruning is carried out, during which only 3-4 strong and healthy shoots are left. Old branches are harvested in the 6th year after planting. Young branches will take their place. Thus, fresh shoots are gradually replacing old ones. The yield of the plant will not be affected, and the currants will always remain young.
A variety called Gross tolerates both cold and heat remarkably. In general, caring for this fruit crop does not differ from caring for other varieties of black currant. Despite being resistant to extreme weather conditions, plants need to be watered during dry periods. In order for the water to reach the roots, it is necessary to arrange a small side near the planting holes.
During the formation and pouring of berries, the frequency of irrigation must be increased so that the harvest is juicy. But in the process of color set, it is better to refuse watering, otherwise the berries will begin to crack and lose their attractive appearance. It is advisable to combine the irrigation procedure with loosening the soil. Work is carried out before watering or after rain.
Experienced gardeners make sure to use mulch when growing currants in their plots. It performs several functions at once: preserving and maintaining an optimal moisture level, preventing weeds and feeding the soil (if organic matter was used as mulch). And also she will not let the fallen berries touch the ground.
Currant is one of the most favorite crops of gardeners, it can be found on almost any personal plot. In order for the currant berries to be tasty and large, and the bush itself to be healthy and strong, you should properly care for, treat and protect the plant from harmful insects. It is important to recognize the signs of the disease in a timely manner and begin treatment in the early stages of plant damage.