The article presents the results of studying the process of obtaining dried fruit products from various apple cultivars on a combined dryer. The objects of research were apple fruits of domestic and foreign selection. It was revealed that different cultivars have different yields of finished products. In the summer ripening group, ‘Scarlet Sails’ cultivar was singled out; in the autumn ripening group, ‘Greensleeves’ and ‘Krymskaya Osen’ cultivars; in the winter ripening group, ‘Golden Delicious’, ‘Golden Reinders’, and ‘Jonagold’ cultivars were singled out. The cultivars with a combination of high taste and appearance scores (4.5 points and higher) were identified: ‘Scarlet Sails’, ‘Krymskaya Osen’, ‘Golden Delicious’, ‘Krymskoe’, ‘Scythia’, and ‘Agarti’. The obtained data on testing the combined dryer showed the possibility of using it in small businesses and farms. The obtained data are recommended for food industry producers of all types of ownership.  

In order to identify genetic sources of high resistance to clasterosporium, 43 genotypes of apricot and 32 peach from the collection of the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Organization «Federal Center of Agriculture Research of the South-East Region» were studied in field and laboratory conditions. Based on the results of three summer observations, ten most resistant genotypes of apricot were identified - Harkot, CPF2-09-3, Ananasny Tsyurupinsky, Korolevskiy, Sibirskiy No. 1, LE-8555, V-12-2, Novichok Yugo-Vostok, Prince March, DaHuan-Hou and seven genotypes of peach – Nectadiana krasnolistnaya 996-88 sv. op., Jaminat, Manon, Osenny Surprise, Red Gold, Elita Luganskaya, Elita Luganskaya OV. No correlation was found between spring field resistance and summer laboratory resistance. In August, apricot leaves were not susceptible to clasterosporium spores when artificially infected in the field.

The article presents the results of research during 2022-2024 to study the timing, duration and intensity of flowering, as well as economically valuable characteristics of the fruits of 20 breeding forms of almonds (Prunus amygdalus Batch.) in the steppe zone of Crimea. It has been shown that in recent years there has been a warming trend in the spring period, especially in 2024, which contributes to an earlier start of flowering and increases the vulnerability of plants to recurrent frosts. Among the studied forms, late-flowering genotypes (Nyutino 2/9, 18/12-31, 11580) have been identified, in which the risk of damage to flower buds is reduced. Forms 8723 (4.3 points) and 18/12-31 (4.0 points) are the leaders in terms of flowering power. When evaluating fruits, genotypes with high core yield were identified. – 10366 (71%), 8979 (57%), 8944 (56%) – and excellent taste (5 points), including 16-7S-7, 8330, 8979, 8944, 9677. Forms 16-7S-7, 8979, 8944, 9677, 10366 They are characterized by the absence of double cores (0%), which increases their market value. The most promising forms for breeding and introduction into production are those that combine late flowering, high flowering strength and high fruit quality: 8944, 18/12-31, 10366.

Persimmon fruits are in high consumer demand in the food market. According to official FAO data,

the Russian Federation is the world leader in persimmon imports in the world – 114596 tons per year. Therefore, the agricultural industry needs to increase industrial persimmon plantations in order to fill the domestic market with fruits of its own production. In turn, for breeders, the primary task is to breed new highly productive cultivars of this crop, adapted to the soil and climatic conditions of Crimea and the southern regions of Russia. The presented work presents the results of many years of work on the selection of promising hybrid forms of the NBG-NSC own breeding from the gene pool collection. Among the studied samples, genotypes were identified according to certain economically valuable characteristics: high sugar accumulation in fruits: № 840 – 17.0%, № 187 – 14.1%, № 462 – 14.4%; high fruit mass: № 840 – 260.4 g, № 187 – 146.7 g, № 1555 – 101.4 g; high yield: № 187 - 90 kg/tree, № 840 – 85 kg/tree; maximum accumulation of ascorbic acid in fruits № 840 – 29.74 mg%. As a result of the conducted research, genotypes № 187 and № 840 were identified according to a complex of pomological, agrobiological and biochemical parameters, as promising for their official registration into cultivars.

The Crimean Peninsula is characterized by a continental climate with hot summers and relatively warm winters. In some years, significant temperature fluctuations are possible, which increases the risk of frost, especially in the spring. The article presents a comprehensive analysis of recurrent frosts, examines the physical and geographical causes and weather conditions of their occurrence and the consequences for fruit crops in connection with the climatic features of the region. Special attention is paid to the effect of low temperatures on the phenological phases of fruit crop development. Studies have been conducted on the effect of cherry crown shapes on the degree of damage caused by negative temperatures during artificial freezing of fruit formations. The weeping form of the crown is highlighted as the most effective for preserving the generative organs of the plant. The results of a study of the degree and nature of frost damage to fruit crops in agricultural enterprises in Crimea are presented. The classification of existing methods of active and passive protection of plants from frost is carried out. The active methods include: smoking, artificial creation of mists, sprinkling, aeration of the surface air layer, and the use of thermoactive screens. Passive methods include: agrotechnical techniques (selection of frost-resistant cultivars, optimization of planting dates, selection of a place for a garden, taking into account the microrelief), as well as land reclamation work (creation of forest protection strips, planning of the territory for the outflow of cold air). Recommendations are given on minimizing frost damage and increasing the resilience of agricultural production to climate risks. It is concluded that in the context of climate change, with an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in recent years, the development and implementation of integrated frost protection systems are becoming critically important elements of ensuring food security of the state. The objective of this work is to study the physical mechanisms of recurrent frosts and to analyse their negative impact on the generative organs of fruit crops in the agro-industrial complex of Crimea, and to review modern methods for minimizing the associated damage. 

The article presents the results of studying the relations between the crown shape of sweet cherry plants of ‘Krupnoplodnaya’ cultivar on their drought resistance and the intensity of chlorophyll fluorescence in leaves during their wilting. Differences in the reaction of plants to drought have been revealed. The correlation of chlorophyll fluorescence in leaves with their moisture content has been determined. It has been found out that the crown formation system – a flattened spindle – is less dependent of moisture supply. This crown shape can be recommended for industrial plantings in regions with insufficient moisture supply.

The objective of the study was to identify the most vulnerable and resistant to Erysiphe azaleae rhododendron species and to develop effective protection methods. The studies were conducted in the Peter the Great Botanical Garden of the Botanical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (St. Petersburg) in 2021– 2024 on a collection of rhododendrons. It was found that Rhododendron japonicum, Rhododendron occidentale, and Rhododendron luteum are the most susceptible, while Rhododendron schlippenbachii, Rhododendron Calendulaceum, and evergreen species showed resistance. The use of salicylic acid (0.1%) reduced the prevalence of the disease by 10–23%, and biopreparations (Mikozar, Vitaplan) showed effectiveness, progressing with the chemical fungicide Topaz. A comprehensive protection system has been developed, including biopreparations, growth regulators and agrotechnical measures, with observance of the timing of work in the key phase of plant development. The obtained results allow to increase the resistance of rhododendrons to powdery mildew in conditions of changing climate.

To identify the drought resistance of seven garden roses genotypes during the period of maximum probability of drought on the Southern Coast of the Crimea, the water regime parameters, proline content and permeability of cell membranes were studied under conditions of controlled dehydration. It was revealed that different conditions of hydrothermal stress have different effects on the studied genotypes of garden roses. In relatively soft wilting conditions, after stress relief, the proline concentration decreased, reaching almost control values and permeability of cell membranes of the leaves of most of the studied objects, except Rosa gallica and Rosa chinensis var. minima, was not impaired. Under conditions of simulated dry weather, after restoration of water supply, the proline concentration and permeability of leaf cell membranes of most genotypes were increased, which indicates damage or partial death of leaf tissues. The destruction of cell membranes occurred in the leaves of the Rosa gallica species, which led to the complete death of tissues. Based on the resistance of cell membranes to destruction and cell protoplasm to dehydration, it was found that ‘Borisfen’ cv. and Rosa hugonis differ in maximum drought resistance.

The article discusses the features of a comprehensive assessment of small-flowered cultivars of chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium (Ramat.) Hemsl.) when cultivated on the Southern Сoast of Crimea. A modified 100-point scale is proposed that takes into account the decorative features and economic and biological qualities of plants specific to the conditions of the region. Evaluation criteria with conversion coefficients of the significance of traits are presented, which make it possible to comprehensively characterize cultivars, taking into account their morphological features, phenological indicators and the ability to vegetative reproduction. The use of this scale helps to identify promising forms for ornamental gardening and optimize the introduction and breeding work in the subtropical zone of Crimea.

The analysis of susceptibility to the main fungal pathogens was carried out in ornamental peach species, cultivars and hybrids from the Nikita Botanical Gardens collection. It was found that genotypes reacted differently to the infection depending on their origin and the year of study. Damage by moniliosis varied within 0–75%. No traces of pathogen development were observed in 18.2% of taxa, while 24.5% had insignificant manifestations that did not reduce the ornamental effect during the flowering period. Leaf curl was estimated from 0 to 70%. Resistance and very weak susceptibility were shown by 34.4% of taxa. Powdery mildew development varied from 0 to 60%. No damage or insignificant manifestations were noted in 46.9% of taxa. Most Prunus persica samples were more sensitive to leaf curl and powdery mildew, and wild peach species and their F₁ hybrids were sensitive to moniliosis. The highest resistance to all three infections was demonstrated by the cultivars ‘Persimira’, ‘Decorativny Ryabova’, ‘Fleur Pompon’, to two – 13 genotypes, to three – 19.

In artificial tree plantations of the Donetsk People’s Republic 30 species of macro- and micromycetes associated with Pinaceae were recorded, 23 of which were pathogenic and responsible for six types of diseases. The largest species diversity was registered on Pinus (20 species) and Picea (15 species), while only two pathogenic species were recorded on Larix, Abies, and Pseudotsuga. Pathogenic fungi causing conifer needle lesions (11 species) and necrotic-canker diseases (9 species) accounted for 67% of the total, whereas other disease types were associated with only one or two species. The most harmful and widespread pathogens of pine and spruce needles included Cyclaneusma minus, Lophodermium seditiosum, L. abietis, and Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii. Notable agents of necrotic-canker diseases were Cenangium ferruginosum, Sydowia polyspora, Nematostoma parasiticum, and Diplodia sapinea. Root and wood decay were attributed to the macromycetes Armillaria mellea s. l. and Heterobasidion annosum s. str. Additionally, the micromycetes Cronartium pini, C. ribicola, Neocatenulostroma germanicum, and Truncatella angustata were found exclusively on plants recently introduced into the region.

The nature conservation significance of 20 associations of birch-pine and pine forests from the Northern and Western Caucasus was assessed using a system of international criteria. The analyzed 6 alliances represent relic communities of various paleo-geographical periods which occur in isolation from their main parts of ranges. Pinus brutia var. pityusa forests of the Jasmino fruticantis–Juniperion excelsae alliance are tertiary relict communities of the Mediterranean type with species richness of 216 and with the presence of 23 Red Data Book species. The Western Caucasian hemi-xerophilous sub-Mediterranean forests of the Campanulo longistylae– Pinion brutiae alliance include 205 plant species, of which 27 are rare and endangered species. The East Caucasian sub-Mediterranian forests of the Onobrychido cornutae–Pinion sylvestris alliance include 98 species, of which 28 are Caucasian endemics and 6 are Red Data Book species. The European-Siberian hemiboreal forests of the Bupleuro polyphylli–Pinion sylvestris alliance are relict Pleistocene communities containing 244 plant species and 16 Red Data Book species. Hemiboreal forests of the Asyneumo–Pinion sylvestris alliance contain 243 plant species, of which 96 are endemics and 10 are Red Data Book species. An analysis of threatened factors and current conservation status has been carried out for all types of forests.

The article presents the results of phytoindication of environmental conditions on the leaning dunes of the northwestern coast of Karalar 0.8 km from the village of Zolotoe (Crimea, Kerch Peninsula). The method of syntaxonomic analysis revealed unique phytocenoses that have no analogues in the Mediterranean, which are associated with various elements of the dune relief: from a modern beach to a dead cliff and a mossy reef ridge. Species diversity, biomorphological composition (life forms, structure of shoots and root systems), and ecomorphological spectra were analyzed for each of the 11 described communities. Using the original calculation program, the position of communities was determined on the gradients of environmental factors (illumination, temperature regime, humidification, continentality, etc.) and resource factors (acidity, salinity, carbonates and nitrogen content, substrate aeration). It was found that the plant communities of the leaning dunes with a high probability (73-100%) indicate specific relief forms. The importance of preserving vegetation cover in order to maintain the stability of dune ecosystems under conditions of recreational loads is emphasized. 

The article presents the results of a geobotanical survey of communities involving Quercus species in the Mountainous Crimea. Three native species (Quercus pubescens, Q. petraea, Q. robur) form natural forest communities on the southern and northern macroslopes of the Crimean Mountains, and are also found in park landscapes and urban greenery. One species (Q. ilex), cultivated along the southern coast of the peninsula, is currently actively integrating into natural forest ecosystems. Based on the analysis of 11 sample plots, a total of 136 vascular plant species belonging to 51 families were identified. The highest species richness was recorded in natural downy oak forests on the southern macroslope, while the lowest was observed in artificial plantations of the Nikitsky Botanical Gardens. Analysis of the taxonomic structure and ecological groups revealed that the flora of oak forests in the Mountainous Crimea is highly mosaic and diverse in life forms. Evergreen and summer-wintergreen xeromesophytes dominate on the southern macroslope, whereas summer-green mesophytes prevail on the northern slope. Low floristic similarity between communities reflects differences in ecological and climatic conditions as well as the degree of anthropogenic impact. Research has confirmed that Bupleurum fruticosum possesses invasive status 1 and functions as a transformer species in the Quercus pubescensJuniperus-Arbutus andrachne communities of the Mountainous Crimea.

Insects significantly exceed all types of living organisms in terms of species diversity and total biomass, being one of the most prominent consumers of plants on the planet. To preserve crops, one of the main tasks in agriculture has always been the need to control and reduce the number of pest insects. The modern use of chemical insecticides leads to the accumulation of xenobiotics in nature and a reduction in biodiversity, including insects. Sustainable development of human society is impossible without beneficial insects, so pest control must be effective and selective. This article shows that the use of the contact oligonucleotide insecticide COCCUS-11 at a concentration of 100 ng/µl against the larvae of Coccus hesperidum L. resulted in the death of 95.59 ± 1.63 % within 12 days. Natural oligonucleotide insecticides demonstrate a new method of pest control that is effective and safe for the environment.