LIBYA

The Libya grape variety is the result of crossing Flamingo and Arkadia varieties and is characterized by a medium ripening period of 105 to 110 days. This table grape variety features vigorous bushes with powerful, well-stretched shoots of light brown color. Libya leaves vary in shape: the first leaf is almost entire, while the rest are five-lobed and moderately incised, with an open petiole notch. The flowers are hermaphroditic, which contributes to good fruit set. Pruning of bearing vines is recommended to 2–6 buds, and the ripening of one-year-old shoots under crop load is 70–80%. Bunches of Libya are large, cylindrical or conical, 25 cm or more in length, medium-loose, and sometimes branched. Berries are pink, oval or egg-shaped, 28 mm or more in length and 18–20 mm in width. The flesh is fleshy and juicy with a pronounced muscat aroma and high sugar content. The skin is thin and is almost imperceptible during consumption. Berries contain one to three seeds, which separate easily from the flesh. Thanks to its qualities, berries retain shape, taste, and aroma during storage for up to 30 days after ripening, ensuring excellent transportability and long-term storage. The Libya variety possesses high winter hardiness down to -21°C and disease resistance, such as to downy mildew and powdery mildew, with a resistance rating of 3.5–4 points. Despite this, fungicide treatment is recommended for prevention. Autumn leaf coloration begins with yellowing of the edges, which is a characteristic feature of the variety. Libya responds well to proper care and the application of high doses of phosphorus-potassium fertilizers, which promotes stable yield and fruit quality.