Barley Peresvet

PERESVET is a mid-early spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) grain fodder variety, developed based on the hybrid Medikum 431-01 x Medikum 113-01. The plant is of medium height with a semi-erect culm, featuring a cylindrical, moderately loose ear with long, smooth awns; the tips of which exhibit weak or moderate anthocyanin pigmentation and serration. The sheaths of the lower leaves are glabrous, while the flag leaf auricles show medium anthocyanin pigmentation and a moderate-strong waxy bloom. The grain is large, with a glabrous venter furrow and embracing lodicules; the mass of 1000 grains ranges from 42 to 58 grams. The variety is characterized by lodging resistance and drought tolerance, ensuring stable yields under various climatic conditions of the Middle Volga region. The vegetative period ranges from 66 to 85 days, allowing for cultivation in regions with a moderately short summer. Average yield results from state trials reached 39.7 centners per hectare, with maximum figures reaching 61.2 centners per hectare, recorded in Tatarstan. Protein content in the grain can reach 14.0%, making the variety attractive for grain fodder use. PERESVET exhibits high grain uniformity (90–95%) and possesses good resistance to a number of diseases, including mild infection by powdery mildew, helminthosporium, and dark brown leaf spot. However, the variety is highly susceptible to loose smut, which requires attention during agronomic practices. The recommended sowing rate is 4.5–5.0 million viable seeds per hectare. Due to its agronomic characteristics and stable yield, PERESVET is a promising choice for cultivation in the Penza, Samara regions, and other areas of the Middle Volga.