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Gooseberry Xenia is a new variety that was brought to Our Country from Europe. Gooseberries quickly fell in love with many gardeners: both experienced and beginners. The breeding of the Xenia variety was carried out by breeders in Switzerland. The certification of the hybrid was also carried out there, namely, in 1990.
In the process of work, Swiss breeders took into account all the wishes of gardeners, as a result of which the Xenia gooseberry embodied all the dreams:
- early ripening;
- a small number of spikes;
- large berries.
Before you start planting and growing a variety crop, it is recommended to first study the description, advantages, disadvantages and features that you will encounter.
Description of gooseberry Xenia
Gooseberry Xenia grows to a height of up to 1 m maximum, the root system is about 30 cm. The branches are in an upright position. In the process of ripening, clusters appear, strewn with large fruits, the weight of which can reach 14 g. The berries have a bright pink hue with a brilliant sheen, foliage is saturated green. The manufacturer claims that the level of studding is minimal. You do not need to pollinate the culture yourself, everything happens naturally.
Drought resistance, frost resistance
Gooseberry Xenia is a drought-resistant variety. However, if you plan to get a high yield with excellent taste, it is recommended to water the crop once every 1 weeks. The variety is able to withstand frosts down to -2 ° C, as a result of which the plant can not be covered for the winter.
fruiting, productivity
Gooseberry Xenia belongs to early ripening varieties, as a result of which it is possible to start harvesting the finished crop in the first half of June. The fruits are quite large, grow in clusters. If the culture is provided with decent care, then up to 12 kg of ripe fruits can be collected from each bush, or 2-3 kg from each branch that is 2 years old.
The palatability is high, the berries are very sweet, after eating there is a pleasant aftertaste. If necessary, it can be transported over long distances without loss of appearance and taste, which is facilitated by the dry separation of berries. The Ksenia gooseberry variety is universal, which allows the use of berries for any type of processing, including for commercial sales.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before you start growing a crop, it is recommended not only to first study the description and photo of the Xenia gooseberry variety, but also the existing advantages and disadvantages.
Among the advantages are the following points:
- the variety perfectly tolerates low temperatures down to -35 ° C;
- has a high level of resistance to the appearance of powdery mildew and fungal diseases;
- if necessary, it can be transported over long distances;
- excellent taste;
- large fruits;
- the minimum number of spikes;
- the versatility of berries.
Only one drawback is noted – with a high level of yield and nutrient deficiency, the Ksenia gooseberry becomes small.
Features of reproduction
One of the ways to propagate the Ksenia gooseberry variety is cuttings, but it is worth noting that it is difficult to carry out propagation work in this way. The best option is to choose a few strong young shoots, bend them to the ground, securely fix them.
Reproduction by layering is possible only after the bush is 3 years old. For propagation, it is recommended to choose strong branches that are closest to the ground. Fixation is carried out using slingshots made of metal or wood. Watering must be regular.
An excellent method is considered a vegetative reproduction option. For these purposes, the bush is dug up, the root system is divided into parts and rooted. Fruiting occurs in the second year after rooting.
Planting and care
Planting material is planted in early spring or autumn. It is best to perform work in the second half of March. The selected site must be sunny, protected from the winds.
The landing algorithm is as follows:
- They dig a hole measuring 50*50*60 cm.
- About 8 liters of organic matter fall asleep at the bottom.
- Gooseberries are carefully planted.
- Abundantly watered.
At the end, the earth is mulched.
Growing rules
It is important not only to study the description, photos and reviews about the Ksenia gooseberry variety in a timely manner, but also to take into account that a good result can only be achieved with quality care. Thus, in the process of growing, it will be necessary to establish an irrigation system, apply fertilizers, cover the crop for the winter period, and, if necessary, treat it for a number of diseases and the appearance of pests.
Gooseberry Xenia is a drought-resistant variety. If the plants were planted in March, then it is enough to water once every 1-1 weeks, 2 liters of water should go to each bush. If the summer is rainy, then you can not water the culture.
Pruning berry bushes is necessary for a number of reasons:
- as a bush formation;
- for the purpose of rejuvenation;
- for sanitary pruning.
The pruning algorithm is performed as follows:
- Last year’s shoots are recommended to be shortened by 1/3 part.
- Horizontal and crooked shoots, as well as branches that grow inside the gooseberry, must be removed.
In order to speed up the ripening process and improve the taste of ripe fruits, it is worth applying fertilizers to which the culture is quite responsive. Traditional fertilizer is the use of mullein-based infusion, which is prepared in a ratio of 1:10. During the period of the appearance of the first ovaries, it is worth adding potassium salt, which will significantly improve the taste of the berries. For each bush, 40 g of potassium salt should be used.
A distinctive feature of the culture is the ability to endure severe frosts. Thanks to this, shelters for the winter period are not required. All that is needed is to carry out sanitary pruning, water the plants abundantly, loosen and mulch the soil. In autumn, when digging the earth, it is recommended to fertilize. All work should be as accurate as possible, the root system should not be affected.
Pests and diseases
In the process of growing on the gooseberry variety Xenia, pests may appear. With improper care, the culture can be susceptible to a number of diseases. In order to prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases, it is recommended to carry out preventive work. For these purposes, the use of 3% Bordeaux liquid is excellent. Treatment with this drug must be carried out before the buds begin to bloom.
If the culture of the Xenia variety was susceptible to the appearance of fungal diseases, then it is worth using fungicides:
- “Topsin”;
- “Strobe”;
- “Topaz”;
- “Falcon”.
Get rid of aphids and spider mites will allow the drug “Karbofos”. It is worth treating the bushes with chemicals a month before the expected harvest, otherwise you will need to stop using the drug.
Conclusion
Gooseberry Xenia is a popular variety, loved by its high taste. With proper care, the yield will be high. If necessary, it can be grown on an industrial scale.
