Genetic resources of the genus Malus as the basis for the accelerated creation of domestic adaptive apple tree varieties

Abstract

Innovations in the apple tree breeding process are associated with the study of the gene pool, the use of valuable samples for accelerated production of commercially popular domestic varieties. The purpose of the study is to identify the most valuable genotypes of the genus Malus of various origins and ploidy for the accelerated creation of domestic adaptive varieties. Modern programs and methods of breeding and variety study were used. The results of the study (2010–2020) of collection of apple trees samples growing in the conditions of the Prikuban zone of the North Caucasus region are presented. It was found that a significant decrease in yield in 2017 and 2020 in the apple tree crop as a whole (11.69–12.48 t/ha) is due to an increase in the negative complex impact of spring-summer and winter stressors on the plant. Promising samples for industrial research and breeding are identified: Gin, 12/1–21–46, 12/2–20–53, immune to scab (Venturia inaequalis (Cook) G. Winter), with increased adaptability to the complex effects of abiostressors in the region, high productivity potential (average yield 26.15–30.05 t/ha, total - 287.65–330.55 t/ha). Selected by large-fruit: Orphey, Gin, 12/1–21–6, 12/2–20–53, 12/1–21–24 (average fruit weight is 200.3–225.5 g) for further use in breeding research and creation of high-quality southern varieties.