HOSTINSKY

Hog plum "Hostinsky" – one of the most popular varieties of hog plum, known for its high cold hardiness and unpretentiousness to growing conditions. The medium-sized tree reaches a height of 3–4 meters, has a round dense crown that is easily regulated by pruning. Flowering occurs in June–July: female flowers are large, solitary and cream-yellow, male – small, grouped. Fruit mass starts from 2–4 years, and yield can reach 30 kg per tree.

Fruits of hog plum «Hostinsky» have a spherical or conical shape, diameter 4.5–5 cm and mass up to 50 g. At full ripening the skin changes color from yellow to rich orange, and the pulp darkens, becomes soft, sweet and aromatic without astringency. Fruits maintain good texture and transportability: they can be stored for up to 2–3 months under proper conditions.

For growing, sheltered from wind areas with fertile, light soil (pH 5–8) are preferable. The tree withstands frosts up to –30 °C and even briefly endures temperatures up to –35 °C. Hog plum «Hostinsky» is self-fruitful, but yield increases with cross-pollination. The variety is resistant to diseases, easily treated with growth stimulants at the beginning of the season, and regular pruning promotes healthy growth and higher yield.