Currant UNIVERSITETSKAYA 123

An Academic Standard in Black Currant Breeding

The «Universitetskaya 123» variety is a product of joint breeding efforts by the RUDN University and the A.G. Lorch Potato Research Center. It is not just another garden variety, but a focused attempt to produce a hybrid with high adaptability and productivity. The key differentiator of this variety is the combination of impressively large berries (up to 5 cm) and a compact bush habit, which is a rare trait among high-yielding cultivars.

Key Technical Specifications

• Yield: 5–7 kg per bush, positioning the variety as a leader in land-use efficiency.
• Harvesting: The compact structure (up to 1.5 m in height) significantly simplifies maintenance and allows for efficient mechanical harvesting.
• Maturation: A mid-season variety, reaching technical maturity within 45–55 days from bud break.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The primary advantage is the size of the berry. These large, black fruits boast excellent transportability. This makes it an optimal choice for commercial growers, as the attractive appearance is long-lasting, and the high yield ensures a quick return on investment. The limited height of the plant simplifies pruning and canopy management, reducing labor costs on the plantation.

The challenge lies in strict agronomic control: like many high-performance hybrids, «Universitetskaya 123» requires high-quality nutrition to sustain such significant fruit production. In the event of moisture stress or nutrient deficiency, fruit size may fluctuate, making the variety best suited for sites with established drip irrigation systems.

Who is this variety for?

This hybrid is ideal for both small-scale commercial farmers and home gardeners who value compactness and high yields. If you are seeking a cultivar capable of producing consistently large, premium berries with moderate care, «Universitetskaya 123» is a rational investment for your orchard.