Assol

The Assol apple tree is a late-winter variety developed by a Ukrainian breeder. The tree has an inverted pyramidal crown shape that requires professional pruning. The variety is characterized by early fruiting and regular high yields due to intensive flower bud formation on one-year shoots. Trees quickly establish, grow vigorously, and begin bearing fruit as early as the 2nd–3rd year after planting, reaching a height of up to 3.5 meters. For successful pollination, varieties such as Aidared, Kateryna, Liberty, and Rubinovoe Duki are recommended. The Assol apple fruits are large, flat-round, weighing from 150 to 200 grams, with a ribbed surface and dense raspberry blush. The flesh is intensely creamy, firm, fine-grained, very juicy, and aromatic with an excellent sweet-tart flavor. Harvesting occurs at the end of September to the beginning of October, and the fruit remains marketable from November to April. The crop is well preserved; some apples may be stored until late spring. The first harvest appears three years after planting. To prevent overloading by fruit, it is recommended to remove excess fruits during their formation. The Assol variety exhibits high resistance to scab, though it may be susceptible to powdery mildew during development. Flowering occurs in mid-late season and is intense. Trees are grafted onto the semi-dwarf rootstock 54-118, which promotes rapid growth and fruiting. This variety is considered one of the best for cultivation in Ukraine due to its combination of high yield, excellent fruit flavor, and good winter hardiness.