A detailed survey of soils occupied by orchards of the Nikita Botanical Garden department "Crimean Experimental Horticulture Station" has been conducted. The physical, physicochemical, and agrochemical properties of soils were studied. Three types and varieties of meadow chernozem and alluvial meadow carbonate soils were identified. Soils have some negative properties that can lead to inhibition of fruit crops: compaction, the presence of interlayers of light and medium clay granulometric composition, increased carbonate content. It has been established that the soils as a result of prolonged anthropogenic impact are subject to slight degradation, which is expressed in dehumification, salinization and alkalization. The recommendations have been done for placement of fruit crops in the area for the rational use of soils. A list of these cultures is limited to certain climatic conditions. In this regard, in this area should be placed plantings of apple, pear, cherry, cherry plum, plum and walnut on carbonate-resistant rootstocks. Recommendations for improving the soil, which are in the sowing of the rows of gardens with perennial grasses, the introduction of mineral fertilizers; periodic loosening of the soil to a depth of 80 - 100 cm to improve the water-physical properties and decompaction of the layers of heavy particle size have been developed. Chemical reclamation is recommended for soils with a high content of toxic alkalinity with the introduction of small doses of calcium and acid-containing ameliorates (phosphogypsum, iron vitriol, etc.). It is necessary to create an irrigation system in all areas of fruit plantations and the use of irrigation water with mineralization not exceeding 0.5 g per liter to prevent soil salinization processes.

The aim of the work was to assess the parameters of effective diffusion and convective transport (mass transfer) of zinc ions in the roots of broad beans ( Vicia faba L.) varieties ‘Yantarnye”, as well as to study the dynamics of the processes of biomass growth of plants, changes in the concentration of Zn in the aboveground parts and roots, removal of the metal with biomass. Methods. The properties of the investigated soddy-podzolic sandy loam soil with the help of conventional methods are determined, model experiments on the study of diffusion of Zn, as well as water-balance vegetation experiments with broad beans are carried out. During the growing season, quasi-equilibrium soil solutions were extracted by centrifugation. Results . Data on the dynamics of Zn concentration in aboveground parts and roots of broad beans and metal removal with aboveground biomass were obtained. Quantitative parameters and formal dependences of the process of root uptake of Zn by plants on time are determined. Their interrelation with dynamics of the content of water-soluble forms of Zn easily accessible to plants in soils is established. The values of migration indicators - the rate of moisture uptake v (H₂O), the effective diffusion coefficient of zinc ( D_ef), the rate of mass flow (transfer) of dissolved zinc ions ( v (Zn)) into the roots of plants with a convective flow of moisture depending on the age of broad beans, were determined. Conclusion. It was found that almost all Zn absorbed by plants enters through the root system as a result of mass transfer processes with a convective flow of moisture (diffusion mechanism of Zn entering the roots of plants plays a secondary role). The obtained parameters can be used to model the processes of root uptake of HM by plants.

The purpose of this article is to highlight the current state of chernozems and identify deficiencies in condition monitoring. Methods. We used statistical and logical analysis of literature and historical data in retrospect. The state of the soil structure was tested by “dry” and “wet” sifting using the Savvinov method. The resistance of the aggregates to destruction in water was analyzed by the Andrianov method. Using the test results the coefficients of the structure and water resistance of the soil as well as the individual fractions of soil aggregates were also calculated. Results. An analysis of published and archival materials showed that since 1960 the humus content decreased from 4.7% to 4% in chernozems, and from 3.86% to 3.1% - on average in the region. The scientifically based ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium is not maintained in the soils. As a result the share of territories with low provision of mobile phosphorus is 20% of the arable land area (according to an agrochemical survey of 2018). An important indicator of soil fertility is their physical condition. However, at present the Soil Service does not exist in Russia, and the agrochemical service program does not determine an important indicator of the soil density equilibrium. Without the Soil Service, it is impossible to track the scale and dynamics of erosion processes. And although it is possible to diagnose erosion by various indirect indicators, for example, such as the structural state, continuous soil reconnaissance surveys are necessary to assess the extent of the phenomenon. Conclusion. The monitoring of humus and mobile phosphorus content in the arable and subsoil layers of soils is carried out by the Agro-Chemical Service. But the organization of the Soil Service is necessary for the objective monitoring work at the regional level.

Objective. To reveal the main subtype features of agrogenic transformation of humus state of chernozems in the conditions of agroecosystems of forest-steppe zone of the Central Chernozem region. Methods. The objects of research are leached chernozems and typical virgin-arable lands. The study of chernozems of natural ecosystems and agroecosystems was carried out in the territories of reserves, fallow areas and different land-uses in the Voronezh and Kursk regions. All soil analyses were carried out according to standardized and generally accepted methods in soil practice. Results. The features of the structure of the humus profile of typical and leached subtypes of chernozems in a range “virgin land-arable land”. The features of agrogenic transformation of fractional-group composition of humus of chernozems as a result of their use in agroecosystems of forest-steppe of the Central Chernozem region are revealed. Summary. Humus profiles of forest-steppe subtypes of chernozems are characterized by different type of humus distribution. When plowing at one meter depth black soil lost 269 (leached) and 274 (typical) t/ha of humus. The transformation of the humus composition of black soils of agroecosystems is on the way for the redistribution of groups and factions in the composition of humus. There is a tendency to the growth of complex ha, formed by younger mobile forms of humus substances. Humus composition of Chernozem typical in comparison with the leached subtypes is changed from a low level of intensity. Overall, changes in the composition of humus in arable Chernozem during long-ploughing does not go beyond the zonal type of soil, but only define some peculiarities of the composition of humus in some capacity increase in the composition of humus fractions HA2, HA3, FA2 and FA3 and reducing fractions HA1, FA1а and FA1.

Aim. The article substantiates the relevance of the development of strategic areas for the non-destructive exploitation of natural resources in the context of modern climatic and anthropogenic environmental changes. The transition to innovative land use along the path of ecological optimization of agricultural landscapes is a key problem of the regional agro-industrial complex of the steppe Orenburg region. Scientific research on methods of increasing the sustainability and productivity of agricultural land while maintaining the maximum biological diversity are identified as the main goal of the work. Discussion. Unacceptable by natural standards, increasing the acreage of grain crops due to plowing wildland in the company 1954 - 1963, as well as the widespread involvement of erosion-unstable landscapes in arable land, are indicated as the main degradation processes on the agricultural lands of the steppe Orenburg. They significantly reduce the quality of land resources, deplete biological diversity, and threaten ecological disaster. Restoration of environmentally balanced resource turnover of steppe agrolandscapes during agricultural land use is proposed through the implementation of nature-like technologies. Their essence is in imitation of natural processes and focus on preserving the sustainability and optimum landscape and biological diversity by reducing the load on natural ecosystems and restoring the balance between the biosphere and the technosphere. Main conclusion. A conclusion was made on the feasibility of an innovative land-use strategy, which provides for the ecological optimization of agricultural landscapes and the implementation of steppe agricultural techniques with maximum reproduction of the main features of natural ecosystems in agricultural ecosystems. Such an approach is considered as a real way to restore biodiversity and ecological balance in landscapes. These points were proved during the analysis of extensive experimental data of well-known scientists, farmers and steppe scientists.

Aim . The objectives of this study were to compare of the number and species diversity of weeds in the winter wheat crops in the long-term field crop rotation experiment under two plant technology classical plowing and direct seeding. Methods . Monitoring of agrophytocenoses under two constantly reproduced soil treatments was carried out twice per season for 10 years by the method of grid mapping of weeds distribution in winter wheat crops. Results . Spatial maps of weeds distribution and areas of different productivity of agrophytocenoses associated with uneven soil conditions and applied technologies of cultivation of crops. It was shown that the number and species diversity of weeds under zero-till technology was on average two to three times higher than under plowing. Autumn use of herbicides Lintur (dicamba+triasulfuron) (1.8 kg/ha) or Alistair Grand (Mesosulfuron-methyl+iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium+diflufenican+mefenpyr-diate) (0.8 l/ha) on winter wheat in the tillering phase significantly reduces the number of weeds for the entire vegetation period. However, under zero-tillage the number of weed plants remains high, approximately 40-80 PCs.m^-2. Conclusions . For ten years of observations in agrophytocenoses of long-term experience of the Center of precision agriculture there were recorded 84 species of undesirable vegetation: 69 weed species, 7 species tree-weeds and 8 species of cultivated plants. During every vegetation season, the survey found an average of 35-40 species. The weeds frequency under zero-tillage (double treatment with herbicide) is on average three times higher than under plowing (single treatment with herbicide).

Aim. To carry out a comparative assessment of the phosphate state of highly humus soils in the upper part of the erosion-dangerous slope (altitude is 280 - 310 m a.s.l.) and moderately humus soils in the middle and lower parts of the slope (an altitude is 190 - 280 m a.s.l.). The studied soils are located on a plot of arable land with square of 225 hectares and 4 km in length in the forest-steppe zone of the south-east of Western Siberia (55˚02´20˝N, 83˚50´00˝E) on the territory of the Cis-Salair drained plain. Methods. Soils (0 - 30 cm) were analyzed by humus content in sulfur-chromium mixture according to the Tyurin’s method; total (P_tot), organic (P_org) and mineral (P_min) phosphorus - by dry ashing according to Sanders and William’s methods; available phosphorus by two methods - according to Chirikov (P_A1) in 0,5 M CH₃COOH and according to Nikolov (P_A2) in 0,1 M C₄H₄O₅(NH₄)₂; easily available phosphorus (P_EA) - according to Karpinsky-Zamyatin in 0,015 M K₂SO₄. Phosphorus in plants (P_plant) was determined by the wet ashing in a mixture of acids according to Ginzburg’s method. Results. In soils of the slope, total phosphorus are consists of 66 - 44% of P_org and 34 - 56% of P_min. On the upper part of the slope in the highly humus soils was determined the most content of P_tot and P_org - 2282 и 1510 mg Р₂О₅/kg. In the middle and lower parts of the slope, the content of P_tot (2119 → 2002 → 1826 mg Р₂О₅/kg) and P_org (1033 → 923 → 809 mg Р₂О₅/kg) was gradually reduced in the follow of series of soils: agrochernozems → agro-dark-gray → agro-gray soils. The higher content of the mineral phosphorus and its available forms, on the contrary, was fixed in moderately humus soils. No differences in the above-ground phytomass reserves of the oat-pea mixture on highly and moderately humus soils were identified. Amount of the P_plant averaged was near 0,60 - 0,92% Р₂О₅, which corresponds to the optimal level. Main conclusions. The phosphate state of highly and moderately humus soils located at the different altitude steps of an erosion dangerous slope are differ. It is advisable to determine the P_A2 or P_EA for the rapid diagnosis of phosphorus nutrition of plants on the Cis-Salair drained plain soils.

Purpose. Assessment of the current state of agroecosystems of Central Tuva. Methods. The objects of research - the chestnut shallow soils, plant communities and agroecosystems of the Central Tuva steppe and steppe districts of the South of the Tuva-Khangai basin-mountain province of the steppe zone. The study of chestnut soils of natural ecosystems and agroecosystems was carried out on the remaining areas of the Central Tuva basin. Results. The general consequence of the agricultural development of the initial dry-steppe ecosystems of the Central Tuva basin is a violation of the combined energy turnover, a decrease in the productivity of transformed agroecosystems, an increase in the degree of the earth's surface exposure and, as a consequence, the general manifestations of land degradation. Summary. The main difference between the fallow phytocenoses and the communities of the initial indigenous steppes is the structure of phytomass: on the deposits above-ground and below-ground phytomass reserves. The structure of the plant substance is the last to reach the terminal level of all the considered parameters. Currently, due to the short duration of agricultural use of the territory of Tuva, abandoned arable land is in the process of restoration. The fallow succession of agroecosystems is unidirectional, deterministic, passes certain stages and leads to plant communities that existed before the plowing of virgin lands.

The objective of the study was to assess the resistance of mites-phytophagans to acaricides on the basis of changes in the biotic potential. Research methods were common for entomology and plant protection techniques to identify and record the number of phytophagans in the fruit orchards: route examination, visual account under a binocular microscope. Biological efficiency of acaricides against spider mites was determined by Henderson-Tilton formula. Demographic indicators of the development of fruit tree red and hawthorn spiders were calculated according to the "Guidelines for the compilation of tables for the survival of insects and mites". As a result of research it has been established that the species composition of mites-phytophagans in the fruit orchards of the Crimea is quite labile and is subject to a constant shift in the proportion of species. The decrease in biological efficiency after repeated use of the same preparations and the appearance of mites phytophagans’ races, resistant to these preparations, have been determined. A comparative assessment of the biotic potential of fruit tree red and hawthorn spiders on apple trees in the presence of acaricides’ application is given. Value of pure reproduction (R_0.> 1) indicates the ability of the fruit tree red spider population to recover and develop resistance to five acaricides: Envidor, KS; Ortus, SP; Sanmite, SP; Demitan, 200 SC and Masai, SP. Hawthorn spider developed resistance to two acaricides. When using insectoacaricides Kraft, VDG and Oberon Rapid, KS, (R₀)_. <1, what indicates that the pest population is decreasing. Conclusion. In order to avoid the emergence of resistant races of mites-phytophagans, the preparations should be alternated with various active substances. The preparations from the group of avermectins are to use no more than 2 times per season.

The objective of the research is to study the features of the development and etiology of scab in different climatic zones of the Crimea, to evaluate the resistance of apple cultivars to pathogens of apple scab Venturia inaequalis (Cooke) Winter and to develop regional systems for the protection of apple trees in the context of short-term prognosis of the disease. The research methods are generally accepted in phytopathology and plant protection ones, which serve for identifying and accounting the infectious potential of the scab pathogen; disease monitoring; study of the features of the pathogen’s development. As a result of research the possibility of expression of three epidemiological models of scab development in the Crimea is established. In 2016, there were epiphytotic types of the disease’s development, when the maturation of 75 % ascospores occurred before flowering. 6-8 generations of the ascigerous stage of infection and 15-17 generations of conidial stage were realized during the season. Meteorological conditions in 2017 contributed to the expression of a moderate type of development of the disease. The 2018 year as a whole was dry and differed with an atypical cascade of temperatures and humidity during the spring period. The development of the disease was depressive, in the first half of the growing season - up to 2 %, in the second half - 35 %. The degree of vulnerability to scab of the main cultivars grown in different agro-climatic zones of the peninsula is established. The following cultivars are sensitive to the disease: Idared, Golden Delicious, Renet Simirenko, Krymskoe, Eva, Gala, Kandil. The cultivars Jonagold and Fuji are tolerant to the intensity of the expressions of the scab in the southern regions of the Crimea. The cultivar of the Crimean breeding Florina showed a weak character of the development of the disease and can be recommended as a donor of resistance to scab pathogens. On sensitive cultivars, losses of standard products in the year of epiphytotics (2016) reached an average of 69 - 81 % of the expected yield.

Apple scab is an economically significant mycosis of the main seed garden crop of the region. The study of the biological and population characteristics of the pathogen is an essential condition for the formation of reasonable protection system for apple orchards. Assessment of the fungus population structure can be carried out using phenotypic analysis of its pure cultures. The advantage of the method is its availability and the ability to study large samples. The effectiveness of this approach is determined by the use of easily analyzed and polymorphic qualitative morphological and cultural signs. Aim. Search and selection of signs of pure cultures of the pathogen, suitable for the study of its populations. Methods. The studies were performed on Venturia inaequalis (Cooke) G. Winter monosporic isolates obtained from the diseased leaves of last year's litter (ascospore stage) using the original technique. At the pure cultures reached one month of age, various qualitative morphological and cultural characteristics were evaluated, among which were found those that had alternative variant of appearance. The presence of one variant excluded the presence of another. Results. Characteristics of the isolates were characterized: the form, the density of the aerial mycelium, the degree of sporulation, the center color and its texture. Main conclusions. As a result of the evaluation of 180 monosporic micromycete cultures, two perspective variant for population research of the pathogen, related to the characteristics of the colonie’s center, were identified.

Aim. To compensate for the loss of organic matter in leached chernozem chernozem, it seems possible to use straw of grain crops as organic fertilizer. To accelerate its decomposition and the involvement of decay products into the circulation of elements, it is necessary to use additional components, in which microbiological preparations can be used, however, native strains must be found for each specific soil type to prevent disturbances of the microbial community due to the introduction of alien species. The aim of the research was to study the biological activity of leached chernozem when plowing straw of cereals with cellulolytic micromycete ( Humicola fuscoatra VNIISS 016 ). Methods. The experiment was laid on leached chernozem, in the fall plowing of winter wheat and barley straw was carried out in the steam link of the grain-crop crop rotation (steam - winter wheat - sugar beet - barley). Studies of the microbial community and biochemical activity were carried out in sugar beet crops. Results. As a result of the research it was found that the use of cellulolytic micromycete contributes to an increase in the number of certain groups of soil microorganisms in connection with the intake of fresh organic matter. There is also an increase in the conditional coefficient of humification, calculated from the ratio of zymogenic and autochthonous microflora. The value of this ratio was the highest - 4.29 (in the control variant - 3.94, when plowing one straw - 3.87, straw with nitrogen fertilizer - 3.38). The same trend was observed when comparing the activity of the enzymes polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase, on average over the growing season Kgum. control was 0.88, and when using straw and H.fuscoatra 1.03. This may indicate that when plowing straw with cellulolytic micromycete favorable conditions develop for the development of soil microflora, as a result of which the soil's biochemical activity remains at a higher level.

Aim . The purpose is to identify the species composition of beneficial insects (acariphages) and mites that form the consortium around Colomerus vitis ( Acari: Prostigmata: Eriophyoidea ) on a vine; and to estimate the value of natural acariphages in regulating the harmful pest population when using a biological control method. Methods. We studied how the purposefully accumulated mite predators and other insects released in mass affect the regulation of the mite population. In the experiments, two methods of acariphages’ application were compared: the combined method involving the acaricide treatment + consequential predators release; and the biological method involving the predators release without additional treatment with acaricide. The standard - double acaricide treatment. In the control variant, acaricidal treatments and predators release were not applied. Observations on the development of C. vitis in experiments were carried out according to the intensity of galling on the basis of the trophodynamic approach - the ratio of predatory mites to the average area of Eriniums per leaf was estimated over time, using a specially developed technique . Results. During 2 years of the biomethod application, by reducing chemical pressure, the process of restoring the regulatory activity of natural acariphages took place. Among the acariphages there were identified 12 types of mites, more or less predatory. Along with predatory mites, a new specialized predator, the Eriophyid, in ampelocenosis (predatory thrips Phloethrips sp. ), was identified. Several species of multi-tailed predatory insects were established; their regular diet includes grape mites. Findings. The regulatory activity of native acariphage species showed high efficiency in regulating the grape mites’ population.

Aim . To substantiate the possibility of using Vitaplan biopreparations ( Bacillus subtilis strain) and Sternifag ( Trichoderma harzianum strain) in vineyards in the post-harvest period in order to increase the efficiency of control of economically significant diseases. Methods Biological efficacy of agrotechnique was determined by reducing the distribution and development of oidium as a percentage relative to the control; it was calculated using the Abbott formula. Ecological efficiency was determined by structural changes of micromycete complexes in the soil, on plant residues and bark of grape bushes. In microbiological studies methods of planting on solid nutrient medium were used. Results . Vitaplan application (100 g / t) for plants and Sternifag application (80 -100 g / t) for soil in post-harvest treatments are observed to have had a positive effect on the mycopathic system of the land-based part of grapes: it reduces the intensity of oidium development by 0.4-1.2% ; shortens the period of phytopathogenesis by at least 14 days; increases the effectiveness of seasonal control of Oidium by 0.8-17.1%; contributes to the formation of a more balanced microbiocenosis; reduces the soil stock of infection of fusarium fungi - pathogens of grape plants by 4-12 times compared with the control variant without treatments and 2.5-8 times compared with the standard variant of post-harvest treatment with 5% iron vitriol. Conclusion. In general, the use of this biotechnological agrotechnique in the system of protecting grapes from diseases should be considered expedient, contributing to an increase in the phytosanitary stability of ampelocenoses.

The objective of the research is to study the species composition of the phytophagans’ complex of apple agrocenoses of the Crimea and to determine the factors that cause changes in the taxonomic structure. The research methods are common for entomology and plant protection techniques to identify and record the number of phytophagans in the fruit orchards: route examination, visual account under a binocular microscope, pheromone traps, hunting belts, shaking-off, mowing entomological nets. As a result of researches the relative instability of phytosanitary condition of apple orchards of the Crimea expressing in periodic outbreaks of mass reproduction of particular species occurring under the influence of biotic and abiotic factors is specified. Acari and Lepidoptera were determined as the most changeable orders. The composition of the dominant species within these orders changed almost completely from 1974 to 2018. The representatives of the orders Coleoptera and Homoptera have shown the greater stability. During the thirty-year period, the group of dominants included the same species. It has been found that the formation of the species composition of entomoacarocomplex of pests occurs under the influence of abiotic and anthropic factors. Biotic factors in industrial apple orchards do not have a significant impact on the number of phytophagans. Conclusion . It has been established that, as a whole, changes in weather conditions, range of pesticides used and growing technology led to a violation of the existing trophic links in the garden agrocenosis, caused qualitative and quantitative changes in the species composition of the entomoacarifauna and it is contributed to the formation of a certain group of dominants under the general depletion of species composition.

Aim. The effect of irrigation on the properties of leached chernozem, as well as on the possibility of secondary soil contamination with nickel (Ni), was studied. An important geochemical feature of the region in which the study was conducted is the enrichment of the soil-forming rocks Ni. As is well known, soil-forming rocks have a direct impact on the chemical composition of soils and water, and indirectly on the content of an element in living organisms. Methods. In order to determine the possible contamination of the soil by Ni as a result of irrigation with natural waters containing this element in large quantities, the main chemical and physico-chemical indicators of the studied chernozems were studied in detail. The gross content and profile distribution of Ni, as well as its exchange compounds in leached chernozem heavy loamy, intensively used in irrigated agriculture, have been determined. The obtained data were compared with indicators obtained in similar soils located on the deposit (background areas). Results. It is shown that under conditions of irrigation in chernozem there is a decrease in the percentage of humus and an increase in the capacity of the humus profile. In irrigated soils there is a decrease in pH and an increase in hydrolytic acidity. It was revealed that the maximum Ni content is noted in the upper horizon of irrigated black soil. Down the profile, a gradual decrease in the metal content occurs, and in the soil-forming rock, there is a second maximum in the profile distribution of Ni. This phenomenon is associated with the enrichment of soil-forming rocks element. Main conclusions. The obtained data on the gross content of Ni and its exchange compounds do not exceed the MPC adopted for black earth soils. Prolonged irrigation does not lead to contamination of leached Ni chernozem, but the soils and irrigation waters need constant monitoring.

Aim - justification of a method Rainfall simulation as an express-method for studying soil water erosion. Methods . In work the method of Rainfall Simulation Procedure at Runoff Plots, based on similarity criteria with use of different rainfall simulation. Results. Results of experiments on studying are presented soil infiltration capacity, loss of dissolved chemical substances, the cumulative soil washout with varying degrees of protected soil cover with use of different rainfall simulation. Main conclusions. Similarity criteria allow for natural rains to use the data obtained from the sprinkling of runoff plots.

Aim. The main purpose of the work was to study the biological potential of the productivity components of the raspberry initial forms of primocane type and the possibility of its increase in the hybrid offspring. Materials and methods . The objects of the researches were 12 cultivars, 13 selected forms, 12 hybrid combinations, populations from free pollination of the total amount of more than 1,500 seedlings. The research material used in the work was distinguished by a large genotypic and phenotypic diversity. The researches were carried out taking into account the basic provisions of the “Program and Methods of Breeding Fruit, Berry and Nut Crops.” Results . The estimation of initial primocane forms of raspberry and their hybrid offspring on productivity components has been carried out. The best genetic sources have been revealed by the number of fruit twigs on the shoot (cultivars of Zhar-ptitsa, Medvezhonok, Podarok Kashinu and selections 3-59-30, 9-113-1), large-fruited (cultivars Atlant, Oranzhevoe Chudo, Bryanskoye Divo, Poklon Kazakovu, Medvezhonok, Podarok Kashinu and selections 29-101-20, 3-59-30, 44-154-2, 7-42-3, 9-113-1 etc.), load stem generative organs (cultivars Bab’e Leto, Zhar-ptitsa, 3-117-1). The features of inheritance of productivity components have been established, the best combinations of crossings have been revealed. Conclusions . The phenotypic evaluation of the initial forms, the analysis of hybrid offspring and the obtained genotypes indicate to the high biological potential of the raspberry productivity of the primocane type and possibility of further gradual improvement.

Aim. The aim of this research is to analyze the results for biological and morphological characteristics of 10 sweet cherries genotypes and their importance during the cultivars examination for distinctness, uniformity and stability as the main criteria for recognizing a cultivar. Methods. Test methods for distinctness, uniformity and stability, Prunus avium L., document RTG/01/3 “General introduction on testing of distinctness, uniformity and stability and writing descriptions” and common method for cultivar testing of fruit, berry and nut crops. Results. Long-term studies of morphological and biological characteristics for sweet cherries allowed to select 10 cultivars among the genotypes obtained in the Nikita Botanical Gardens and to include them in Register of cultivars approved for use in the South of Russia and State Register of protected breeding achievements. Conclusions. The analysis of the results of long-term researches for morphological and biological characteristics allowed to conclude that each of the 10 cultivars clearly differs from other well-known varieties and meets the requirements of uniformity and stability.

Aim. Identify the forms of the cherry subgenus Typocerasus Focke , combining high winter hardiness and disease resistance. Methods. Winter hardiness (resistance to sharp and gradual change of thaws by frost) was studied under controlled conditions for the 3rd and 4th components. Resistance to fungal diseases Monilia cinerea Bonord and Coccomyces hiemalis Higg. studied in field conditions in epiphytotic years. Results. The results of the study of winter hardiness and resistance to fungal diseases of 36 species and hybrids of wild-growing cherry of the subgenus Typocerasus Focke in the conditions of the Tula region are presented. As a result of the study, 4 forms of East Asian cherries were selected, combining a high level of winter hardiness of vegetative buds, bark, wood, medium winter hardiness of flower buds and high resistance, non-resistance to moniliosis and coccomycosis; 18 forms combining high winter-resistance of flower buds, average winter-resistance of vegetative buds, tissues and high resistance, intractability to moniliasis and coccomycosis were selected. Main conclusion. Identified species and hybrids of cherry are of interest for creating winter-hardy cultivars of cherries with a fundamentally new, high resistance to fungal diseases.

Aim. To study the soil conditions of growth and assess the ability of Chaenomeles maulei to generative reproduction and fruiting in the conditions of the Republic of Bashkortostan. Methods. The objects of research are anthropogenically transformed soils and bushes Chaenomeles maulei C.K. Schneid. Studies were carried out at the site of the Republican Children's Ecological and Biological Center in Ufa and the Republican Forest Soil-Chemical Laboratory of the Ministry of Forestry of the Republic of Bashkortostan. Soil analyzes were carried out according to standardized and generally accepted methods of soil practice. Productivity and sowing qualities of seeds were studied by standard methods. Results. The physicochemical properties of anthropogenically transformed soils were studied. The features of the soil in urbanized landscapes are revealed. The morphological description of Ch. maulei with the introduction in the conditions of the Republic of Bashkortostan on urban soils, seed germination and fruit productivity was carried out. Findings. 1. Urbanized soils retain some properties of natural gray-brown soils. The surveyed layer consisting of organo-mineral material contains urban-industrial inclusions and sand particles. The granulometric composition of the soils is heavy loamy, the urbanozems studied on the main indicators of fertility correspond to the average availability. 2. Ch. maulei in the conditions of the Republic of Bashkortostan on urban soils gives full seeds with high germination (71-87%). The number of seeds in the fruit is on average 54,5 ± 3,5 (max. 84, min. 14 pcs.). 3.Fruit weight on average 21.8 g (min. 16, max. 41 g). Productivity varies greatly. Seedlings differ in shape and size of fruits; it is necessary to select highly productive forms in order to obtain varieties adapted to the conditions of the Republic of Bashkortostan.

Zizyphus fruits have unique taste properties and contain high concentrations of biologically active substances (vitamins, microelements, sugars, proteins and fats). In view of the low transportability of fresh fruit, it is important to obtain and study new types of processed products from zizyphus. Purpose. To give a comparative evaluation of the content of biologically active substances in the processed products of a promising zizyphus cultivars. Methods. For the experiment, the promising zizyphus cultivar Tsukerkovy bred in the Nikitsky Botanical Gardens - the National Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences was chosen. The study of chemical and technological properties of the obtained from processed products of zizyphus fruits was carried out in the laboratory of biochemistry, physiology and reproductive biology of plants in the Nikitsky Botanical Gardens using standard techniques (spectrophotometry, colorimetry, and titrometry). Results. Due to the fact that zizyphus products are characterized by the lack of flavor, three types of products were prepared from fresh fruits of the promising cultivar Tsukerkevy: compote, compote with the addition of thyme of Yalos cultivar (linalool genotype), compote with the addition of the thyme of Yubileyny cultivar (timene genotype). The content of titrated acids, the amounts of phenolic substances, flavonols and ascorbic acid are determined in the obtained compotes. All studied samples were distinguished by a high content of ascorbic acid (up to 154 mg / 100g). The maximum content of ascorbic acid and the sum of phenolic compounds were found in compotes without additives, and flavonoids and titratable acids - in compote with the addition of the herb of thyme of Yubileyny cultivar. Conclusions. By the content of ascorbic acid and the sum of phenolic compounds, compotes with aromatic additives are slightly inferior to compote without additives, and by the content of flavonoids are superior to it. The use of the herb of thyme linalool and thymol genotypes as food additives is promising for enhancing the organoleptic characteristics and biological value of products prepared from zizyphus fruits.

Aim. The creation of adapted cultivars of black currant with high (15 - 17 t/ha) stable yields, large fruited (average fruit mass 2g or more), content of vitamin C in fruits 200 mg/100g or more, sugars 10%, simultaneous maturation, dry separation and durable skin of berries, 80% self-fertility, suitability for mechanized harvesting. Methods. The selection work was carried out taking into account the main provisions of the «Program and Methods of Breeding of Fruit, Berry and Nut- Bearing Crops». The requirements of the «Program and Methods of Breeding of Fruit, Berry and Nut-Bearing Crops» have been taken into account during the cultivars study. Results. The created cultivar collection allowed identifying the most perspective cultivars for cultivation in the local conditions, and genetic sources for further breeding. As a result of breeding researches, 12 cultivars of black currant have been created, 7 of which are included in the State Register of Breeding Achievements admitted to be used. Main conclusions . By the present time, a large and substantial work on the breeding of black currant has been carried out and effectively continues on the Kokino Base Station of FSBSI of the All-Russia STIHN. Genetic sources of the main economic and valuable signs are allocated: - high hardiness: variety Dar Smolyaninovoy, Lentjy, Litvinovskaya, Pamyati Ravkina, Partisanka bryanskya, Selechenskaya 2, Tamerlan, Gamayun, Favorit, Tharodey, Kudesnik, Podarok Veteranam, selections 4-18-12, 5-66-5, 33-27-1, 8-03-15, 8-2-97, 8-4-5, 18-18-6/05 et al.; - resistance to powdery mildew, leaf spots and bud mite: varieties Gratsiya, Kipiana, Tamerlan, Nara, Litvinovskaya, Spharovidnaya, Kudesnik, Podarok Veteranam, Strelets, Chudnoe mgnovenie, selections 2-7-1/08, 4-34-8, 5-4-2/08, 33-27-1, 33-27-7, 36-14-1, 36-17-8, 44-8-1, 63-35-1 et al.; - large fruits: varieties Bryansky agat, Debryansk, Mif, Kudesnik, Istok, selections 5-03-8, 5-66-5, 6-14-3, 6-14-4, 37-27-4/05, 21-12-1, 68-03-1, 11-6/05; - high density of berries: varieties Tamerlan, Sudarushka, Partisanka bryanskya, Myf, Tharodey, Kudesnik, Vera, selections 5-66-5, 8-2-97, 8-4-5, 9-3-97, 18-18-6/05, 33-27-1, 68-03-1, 73-03-2 et al.; - increase the level of accumulation of vitamin C (> 200 mg/100 g): varieties Sudarushka, Barmaley, Istok, Bryansky agat, Kudesnik, Podarok Veteranam, selections 8-2-97, 8-4-5, 33-27-1, 45-55-1, 33-14-3 et al.

Aim. Based on the analysis of the economic and biological indicators of varieties and hybrids of diploid plums and their resistance to environmental factors, to select valuable sources for breeding based on the signs of adaptability, productivity and fruit quality. Methods. The study of economic and biological characteristics of 43 cultivars and elite forms of the genetic collection of diploid plums ( Prunus salicina Lindl., P. rossica Erem.) FSBSI ARHIBAN was carried out from 2013 to 2018 using standard techniques. Results. The terms of flowering and fruiting of 13 cultivars and 24 elite forms of Rossica plum, 3 cultivars and 3 elite forms of Japanese plum were established, they were ranked into groups, the quantitative parameters of the components of fruit productivity and quality, biotic and abiotic resistance were determined. Main conclusions. The earliest ripening is from 11.07 (elite form № 7-1-10 seedling Ranney Rozovoy), the latest ending is 18.09 (Mara). With the joint cultivation of cultivars of the three groups of ripening, the period of receipt of the fruit is 1,5 months, which allows you to prolong the period of their consumption. By the combination of characteristics, promising for use in farms of various categories of property and further selection work in the study area of 14 variety samples are recommended. According to the combination of large-fruited, taste characteristics and productivity, the following genotypes were distinguished: Kubanskaya Kometa, Nesmeyana, elite form L 14/18, Orlovskaya Mechta, elite form № G-9. As a source of signs of early ripeness and high content of BAS - elite form №. 7-1-10, seedling Ranney Rozovoy. The period of successful cultivation of diploid plums in the Moscow region is 12-15 years.

Aim. The characteristic of the most significant valuable features of irises from the collection of the All-Russian Horticultural Institute for Breeding, Agrotechnology and Nursery for use in gardening and breeding is given. Methods. Indicators of more than 100 species, forms and cultivars of irises by the signs that are important for gardeners-designers, characterizing their appearance, are given. Taking into account genetic diversity and using the method of assessing the patentability of cultivars, the blooming dates from very early to very late are marked with calendar dates corresponding to years with close to mean multiyear meteorological conditions in the Moscow region. Irises of garden groups MBD, SBD, IB, BB, TB, SIB are represented in the collection presented. For I. x hybrida hort. cultivars the form of lower parts of the perianth - falls are allocated, such as oval-lanceolate, wide-oval-lanceolate, rounded-lanceolate and rounded with ratio of width to length of fractions up to 0.55, from 0.55 to 0.7, from 0.7 to 0, 85 and more than 0.85 respectively. Results. Characteristics of cultivars based on the falls form is given; cultivars with corrugated lower lobes are indicated, timing of flowering defined. The cultivars of irises created in the beginning-middle of the last century are recognized as promising for landscaping and breeding due to fertility, a variety of flower color and resistance to lodging. Also forms and cultivars of I. sibirica, I. ensata are promising as well as medium-sized bearded irises due to the versatility of their use. Main conclusions. The expansion of the institute’s collection by medium-sized irises (IB) and representatives of the subgenus Limniris is planned. Many representatives of this subgenus, which are more resistant to heterosporia, with later flowering periods compared to bearded irises, with high variability of flower color, are recommended for more active use for landscape construction of settlements in the central part of Russia.