Zustrich

Zustrich variety Vstrєcha is an early hybrid variety developed in 1966 at the Kyiv Horticultural Station of the Academy of Sciences of Ukraine by crossing the large-fruited cherry Lyubskaya and the cherry-plum hybrid Kyivskaya-19. The tree is low-growing, reaching a height of up to 2.7 meters, with a beautiful dense spherical crown of about 2.5 meters in diameter. Fruit production begins in the third year after planting, allowing for relatively quick harvests.

The fruits of the Vstrєcha variety are large, with an average weight of about 10 grams, and a maximum weight of up to 15 grams. The berries are round with a slightly flattened appearance on top and bottom, having a dark red skin that is thin but dense, and a tender, juicy, melting flesh. The fruits remain firmly attached to the stems, improving their market quality and transportability. The variety is self-sterile, and for pollination, it is recommended to use varieties such as Large-fruited Zustrich, Valeriy Chkalov, Primetnaya, and Shalunya.

Zustrich Vstrєcha is characterized by high frost resistance, resistance to fungal diseases, and drought tolerance. For high yields, it is recommended to plant trees in sunny locations with fertile, well-drained, and moderately moist soils. Due to its characteristics and taste qualities, the fruit is widely used fresh, in culinary applications, and for preservation.