Fregat

The Fregat apple variety is a modern winter variety bred by breeders Savelyev and Yushkov through crossing the Karповое and Skala varieties. The tree is medium-sized with a round crown of medium density; branches depart from the trunk at an acute angle. Fregat is characterized by early fruiting—it bears fruit by the fifth year after planting, with regular and annual production. The variety possesses high winter hardiness, comparable to the standard Antonovka, as well as the ability to restore frost hardiness after warm spells. The apple is immune to scab due to the presence of the Vf gene, which significantly reduces the need for treatments and increases resistance to diseases.

Fruits of the Fregat variety are distinguished by their large size—the average weight is between 135 and 160 grams, with a maximum reaching up to 220 grams. Apples are round, regular in shape, with smooth, thin skin covered by a blurred brownish-red blush or pinkish stripes. The flesh is fine-grained, dense, juicy, with an acid-sweet taste rated 4.3–4.5 out of 5 points. The fruit shelf life lasts until March, making it suitable for winter storage and use.

The variety prefers moisture-retentive, air-permeable, fertile soils, such as loamy and sandy loam. Fregat is characterized by high productivity and resistance to abiotic stresses, making it attractive for cultivation in various climatic conditions. The high commercial and consumer qualities of the fruits, immunity to scab, early fruiting, and regularity of production make the Fregat apple an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a quality and stable harvest.