GUARDIAN WINTER

The 'Guardian Winter' pear is a winter variety of Crimean selection, obtained by selection among seedlings from free pollination of the Phelps variety. The tree is of medium height with moderate growth rate, forming a narrow pyramidal crown of medium density. In young age, growth is moderate, and fruiting begins in the third year after planting. The variety is early-fruiting, blooms late, is self-sterile and requires pollinators for a good harvest.

The fruits of this variety are large, averaging about 280 grams, sometimes reaching 330 grams. They have a pear shape with a greenish-yellow basic color and a pink blush. The flesh is white, juicy, semi-fatty, with an acid-sweet taste and a weak aroma. Sugar content is about 10.2%, acids — 0.19%, vitamin C — 9.5 mg%, dry matter — 24.1%. Tasting evaluation of taste reaches 4.7 points, indicating high fruit quality.

Harvest maturity occurs in mid-October, at which time fruits are well retained on the tree and have high marketability, ensuring good preservation and transportation. Consumption periods continue from December to February, making the variety in demand for the winter period. The variety is resistant to scab, but has low frost hardiness, so it is recommended for cultivation in the climatic conditions of Crimea and the North Caucasus region.