Three new varieties of mandarin have been introduced in Sochi

They were patented by scientists of the subtropical Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, who conduct breeding work with citrus fruits. On the eve of the 300th anniversary of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), which it will celebrate in 2024, one of the varieties was named "Academic". Another one - "Sunny" - is an early variety, the tree is all covered with golden fruits. The third variety was named in honor of Prince Vladimir, equal to the Apostles, and there is a cathedral in Sochi that bears his name.

- The center has a collection of citrus fruits, which has over 150 varieties. Both agrotechnical research and extensive breeding work are carried out on the basis of the collection. The main efforts of breeders are aimed at the tangerine group, since these fruits in Sochi can be grown without shelter on warm microstages. The breeding process includes varieties with early maturity, winter hardiness, stunting, and good fruit quality," said Raisa Kulyan, Head of the Breeding laboratory of the Subtropical Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Candidate of Agricultural Sciences.

Fruit crop breeding is a very long process: from seed to flowering of a hybrid seedling, it takes from 10 to 15 years. This is the only way to make sure that the hybrid has not deviated towards a wild relative, to assess the quality of fruits and other signs. Breeding in Sochi began in the 30s of the last century, and since then 10 varieties have been obtained. After obtaining patents for new varieties, scientists are preparing for their "launch" - applications for laying new plantings have already been received. In 2023, about 160 kg/ha were collected at the experimental sites of the subtropical Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Such yields are significantly higher than in 2022, this was facilitated by favorable weather conditions.