ZHIVKO

Sea buckthorn «Zhivko» (variety 42‑68‑1) – medium‑height shrub or tree with a wide, multi-branched crown and thornless. Bark is light brown with a gray patina, shoots are straight and light brown. Leaves are dark green, slightly concave.

Fruits are oval-shaped, medium size (mass 0.56–0.61 g), orange-red, sour taste, with dry berry detachment. Contains about 7.2 % sugars, 1.2 % titratable acids, 6.25 % oil, and 53.5 mg of vitamin C per 100 g. Carotenoids make up 48.2 mg/100 g. Ripening period – from August 20 to September 10.

Yield is high: from 11.4 kg/plant to 13.2 t/ha with proper agrotechnics; under optimal conditions can reach 18 t/ha. Fruiting begins after 3‑4 years from planting and continues for 6–7 years of active growth.

Variety «Zhivko» is suitable for producing compotes, juices, jams, and also as raw material for sea buckthorn oil. Requires fertile, well-drained soils (clay, sandy-clay) and neutral pH 6.5–7. Plant is resistant to cold and frost, but needs regular watering during active growth and pruning to maintain shape and increase yield.

Main diseases – root rot (Rhizobium), powdery mildew (Puccinia), and «dusty» fungus (Sphaerothecium). Insecticides and fungicides are applied if necessary. The variety has no specific regional restrictions, so it can be grown in a temperate climate with good soil drainage capability.