The Medea apple variety is a medium-sized tree with winter ripening, developed at the Crimean Experimental Station of Horticulture. This variety is characterized by early fruiting, starting as early as 3-4 years after planting, which allows for stable and high yields. The tree prefers sunny, wind-protected locations, does not tolerate waterlogging or excessive dryness, and groundwater should not be closer than 2.5 meters to the surface. The apple tree is not demanding on soils but develops better on fertile and fresh soils. Planting is recommended in spring before bud break or in autumn 1-1.5 months before frost, maintaining a distance between saplings of at least 5-6 meters.
Medea fruits are large and extra-large, weighing 280-300 grams, with a regular flat-round shape. The skin is firm, light yellow with a blurred orange-red blush covering almost the entire surface. The flesh is dense, creamy, juicy, and finely-grained, with a high-quality sweet-and-sour taste, rated 4.6-4.7 points. Harvest readiness occurs in early October, and when stored in a refrigerator, the fruits retain their properties until April. The variety has good transportability, making it convenient for marketing and storage.
Medea is characterized by high resistance to fungal diseases, particularly scab, and moderate winter hardiness, which limits its use in regions with harsh winters but makes it ideal for Crimea and other regions with a warm climate. Care for the tree includes the application of mineral fertilizers, especially in the second year after planting, as well as regular feeding during the growing season. Protection against freezing and rodents is necessary in winter. Pruning is done in the form of a spindle-shaped crown, and propagation is achieved through grafting on rootstocks. The variety is valued for the high taste qualities of its fruits, decorative appearance, and stable yield.
