Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) VELTA

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) 'Velta'

A Latvian variety with exceptionally large and tasty fruits.

'Velta' is a prized Latvian apricot variety, which draws attention mainly for its very large and attractive fruits. They are round, orange with a red blush, and have firm, aromatic flesh with a good flavor. The stone separates very well from the flesh. The tree has strong growth and satisfactory frost hardiness. In favorable years, it produces a very high yield. It is an ideal choice for gardeners who are primarily looking for large and tasty fruits and do not mind the potential need for disease protection.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Very large and attractive fruits: Weight reaches up to 50 grams.
• Good, aromatic taste: The fruits are especially suitable for fresh consumption.
• Very good freestone quality: Makes eating easier.
• High productivity in favorable years.
• Satisfactory frost hardiness.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Latvia, Dobele
• Origin: Selected by Pēteris Upītis
• Year of registration: 1999

Variety Characteristics

Tree

Growth is strong with an upright crown. In good years, the yield is very high. It is cross-pollinated and needs another apricot variety blooming at the same time nearby to ensure a harvest.

Fruit

• Size and weight: Large, with an average weight of 12–45 grams, maximum up to 50 grams.
• Shape: Round, slightly flattened, with a pointed tip.
• Appearance: Very beautiful, orange, with a red blush. The skin is medium-thick and slightly fuzzy.
• Flesh: Orange, medium-firm, fine-grained.
• Taste: Good, aromatic.
• Stone: Large, oblong, separates very well from the flesh.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost hardiness: The wood has satisfactory frost hardiness; the flower buds have medium resistance.
• Disease resistance: Medium. It is susceptible to shot hole disease (clasterosporium) and fruit rot, which may require the planned use of fungicides.

Growing Recommendations

• Use: A dessert variety for fresh consumption.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Early to mid-August.
• Transportability: Medium to low. For better handling, it is recommended to harvest the fruits before they reach full maturity.