Apple Calville Donetsk

Apple Calville Donetsk — a winter variety developed by Ukrainian selection at the Donetsk Station through crossing Renet Simirenko and Boyken. Trees of this variety are either vigorous or medium-sized, with a wide, rounded, and dense crown, reaching up to 3.5 meters in height and firmly rooted in the soil without requiring permanent support. Grafting onto the semi-dwarf rootstock 54-118 ensures rapid rooting, vigorous growth, and early fruiting already on the 2nd-3rd year after planting. The variety is characterized by high yield, resistance to powdery mildew, and satisfactory cold hardiness, making it suitable for cultivation in the middle zone with temperatures down to -33°C. It does not form root suckers in the garden.

Fruits of Calville Donetsk have medium size — from 130 to 190 grams, usually around 140-150 grams, with a flattened-conical shape and ridges at the top. Their skin is initially green and uncolored, but during storage, the fruits turn yellow and develop a waxy coating. The flesh is greenish-white, medium-firm, fine-grained, juicy and tender, with a slightly acidic-sweet taste and no strong aroma. Apples are suitable for fresh consumption from mid-September and can retain their quality until June when properly stored in a cellar or storage facility, where they can be kept until March-May.

The variety exhibits annual fruiting and minimal care requirements, making it convenient to grow. Due to its good storability and disease resistance, Calville Donetsk is suitable both for fresh consumption and for making cider. Its fruits are valued for their long storage life and consistent quality, making this variety popular among gardeners and home apple enthusiasts.