Apple tree (Malus domestica) PĂTUL

Apple (Malus domestica) 'Pătul'

Old Romanian "Granary" variety with extreme storage life and resilience.

'Pătul' is a rare autochthonous (native) Romanian variety, whose name translates to "Granary" or "Barn". This name is no coincidence – the variety is legendary for its long-term storage capability in standard home conditions. It is a rustic, highly resistant variety that produces smaller fruits, but compensates with their firm structure, juiciness, and ease of cultivation.

Key Highlights:

• Extreme storage life: Lasts in the cellar for 4 – 6 months (until March).
• High resistance: Resistant to diseases and climate fluctuations (suitable for organic growing).
• Rustic taste: Refreshing, sweet-sour, and very juicy.
• Regular and abundant yields.
• Ideal for winter storage and drying.

Origin and Registration

• Origin: Romania (old heritage variety).

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Growth: Vigorous. Forms a compact, spherical crown.
• Productivity: Begins bearing fruit in the 3rd – 4th year. Bears heavily, especially on the periphery of the crown.
• Pollination: It is self-sterile; a pollinator is required.

Fruit

• Size and Weight: Small to medium, 100 – 150 g.
• Shape and Color: Symmetrical, spherical. The skin is smooth, glossy, slightly waxy. The yellow-green base color is covered with a red blush on the sunny side.
• Flesh: White-yellow, very firm, crisp, and juicy.
• Taste: Pleasant, rustic, balanced sweet-sour with a mild aroma.
• Usage: Universal – fresh consumption, excellent for drying and home processing.

Resistance and Requirements

• Resistance: The variety is characterized by high resistance to diseases and various, even less favorable, climatic conditions.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollinators: Suitable pollinators include 'Jonathan', 'Golden Delicious', 'Idared', 'Florina', 'Red Delicious', and 'Topaz'.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: First half of October.
• Storage: Excellent. Lasts without loss of quality in a standard cellar until spring (March).