- Authors: University of Saskatchewan, Canada
- Name synonyms: Boreal Blizzard
- Growth type: medium-sized
- Description of the bush: thick and spreading
- Bush height, m: 1,5
- Escapes: powerful, elastic
- Crown: spherical
- Fruit size: large
- Fruit weight, g: 2,8-3,9
- Fruit shape: oval
Boreal Blizzard translates to "northern blizzard / blizzard". Such a telling name is an excellent Canadian variety of honeysuckle with huge edible fruits that have a unique dessert taste.
Breeding history
It is common knowledge that Canada is very famous for its particular success in breeding such a crop as honeysuckle. The Boreal Blizzard variety is one of the best. Many believe that the name directly alludes to the almost "hurricane" productivity of the culture. However, it can also illustrate the frost resistance of this variety. It all began in 1998, when edible honeysuckle attracted the attention of breeders at the University of Saskatoon (Saskatchewan, Canada). Selective experiments on the basis of this scientific center were carried out with Russian and Japanese varieties, as a result, subspecies were selected that were suitable for cultivation in the Canadian climate.
At the same time, the best fit were forms from Russia, with which fruitful work began in 1999. It was led by Dr. Bob Bore. At first, the scientist received shrubs with small fruits. But he did not stop there, and after persistent experiments, it was possible to breed a large-fruited variety thanks to the selection of Russian, Kuril and Japanese varieties. In 2016, Bob Bora managed to get a variety, which he named Boreal Blizzard. The genome of the culture contains half of the genes of Russian and Japanese varieties.
Description of the variety
Honeysuckle of the Canadian variety forms one and a half meter bushes, which are medium in height. Their crown is spreading, the shape resembles a ball, strong shoots grow straight.
Fruit characteristics
The berries of Boreal Blizzard are simply gigantic, they reach 3.5 cm in length, 1 cm in width.As for the mass of berries, for honeysuckle it is huge - on average, it is about 3 grams, or more precisely, from 2.8 to 3.9 g. Fruits are oval in shape, with dark blue skin. Of course, the appearance of the berries of this variety is more attractive when compared with most of the domestic varieties. They are all smooth, perfect, delicious.
Taste qualities
The taste of Canadian berries is as delicious as the look, it combines sweetness and sourness in perfect proportions, and has an amazing aroma. The pulp is very juicy, fleshy.
Ripening and fruiting
The fruiting period of the Canadian guest is late and extended, lasts from June to September. This distinguishes it from the classic varieties.
Yield
Like the blizzard, the crop is rapidly increasing its yield every year, and this happens much faster than other varieties. For example, a three- or four-year-old plant already bears 2.5 kilograms per bush (other varieties are able to bring such a crop only by the 5-7 season). After 3-4 years, the indicators will be even higher, and by 5-7 years Boreal Blizzard reaches a record 6 kg.
Growing and caring
Honeysuckle from Canada, under suitable conditions and with proper care, can grow well and bear fruit successfully for up to 30 years. It is only important to choose the right place for its permanent growth.The culture in question will feel great in a well-lit area, as well as protected from northern gusts of wind. She will be fine with light shading. Typically, this plant is planted near a wall or fence.
Boreal Blizzard cannot withstand flooding, cannot grow on swampy soil. The groundwater level is allowed no closer than 1.5 m from the ground surface. Otherwise, if there is no other site, it is necessary to create a good drainage or drainage trench. The optimal soil options for cultivating Canadian honeysuckle are loose, drained soil, as well as loam or sandy loam with a slightly acidic or neutral pH reaction.
It is also important to use only healthy planting material, to comply with the terms and technology.
Planted bushes should receive the necessary care:
- watering in accordance with the regime;
- applying dressings twice a season;
- loosening, weeding and mulching the soil;
- forming and sanitary trimming;
- spraying against pests and diseases.
Winter hardiness and the need for shelter
Adult shrubs of Canadian honeysuckle are able to survive severe frosts down to -40 ° C, while flowers often resist spring return frosts down to -8 ° C. At the same time, the culture does not tolerate prolonged drought very well.
