Kağızman Uzun Elması

Kağızman Long Apple is an original apple variety grown exclusively in the Kağızman district of Türkiye. Thanks to the microclimatic conditions of the Aras Valley, the region stands apart from the surrounding harsh continental climate zone, offering favorable conditions for fruit cultivation. In Kağızman, where the annual average temperature is 8.6 °C, frost events typically end between 14 and 15 April and begin again between 27 and 28 October, creating a suitable growing period for fruit. This product was applied for geographical indication status under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property on 12 July 2012, officially registered on 25 December 2017, and protected under the name “Kağızman Long Apple”.

Definition and Distinguishing Characteristics

Despite the harsh effects of the continental climate, Kağızman district is one of the rare areas in Türkiye where fruit cultivation is sustained, thanks to the sheltered structure of the Aras Valley. The Long Apple, unique to Kağızman among Türkiye’s 25 apple varieties, grows on trees that reach 4 to 6 meters in height and exhibit upright growth. The fruit is cylindrical in shape, longer than an egg, measuring 10–12 cm in length and 5–6 cm in diameter. The upper and lower portions are white, while the middle section exposed to sunlight is reddish. With its thin skin, high sweetness, and striking appearance, it is highly sought after in markets. This variety exhibits biennial bearing, producing fruit every other year.

Phenological Characteristics

• Blooming period: 26 April – 10 May
• Full bloom date: 30 April
• Pollen germination rate: 61.54%
• Fruit set rate: 2.54% with self-pollination, 17% with free pollination

Pomological Characteristics

• Flesh firmness: 2.45 kg/cm²
• Fruit weight: 169.0 ± 2.7 g
• Fruit width: 58.1 ± 0.9 mm
• Fruit length: 8.7 ± 2.3 mm
• Stem length: 21.0 ± 1.5 mm
• Number of seeds: 8.4
• Fruit color: Sap Green 62/8
• Soluble dry matter (SDM): 13.50%
• pH: 3.36
• Vitamin C: 3.69 mg/100 ml
• Acidity: 0.29%

Production Method

Kağızman Long Apple is propagated through grafting. Planting distances are typically implemented at 6×6 or 7×7 m. This self-incompatible variety requires pollination by pollen from other apple varieties. Due to its upright, poplar-like growth habit, branches are bent during pruning to encourage fruiting and increase yield. It is a late-harvest apple; harvesting is done manually and the fruit is shipped to various markets, including Istanbul.

Trees grow in slightly calcareous, sandy, loamy, and hard aluminum soils. After grafting, a one-year waiting period is required before planting, and fruit production begins after a total of seven years. Harvesting takes place around 1 October, coinciding with Kağızman’s Liberation Day. When stored in cool conditions, the fruits remain unspoiled until June, showing only slight shriveling. Spoiled fruits turn blackish-brown and shrivel without affecting neighboring fruits.

In productive years, each tree yields 80–100 kg of fruit. Support structures are used to prevent branch breakage. The trees’ vertically elongated branches, resembling those of a service tree, are a distinctive feature that sets this variety apart from other apples.

Monitoring

The production and distribution processes of the product are monitored by a control commission established by the Kağızman District Directorate of Food, Agriculture and Livestock and the Kars Chamber of Agriculture. Spraying, grafting, and harvesting times are inspected; educational meetings are organized at appropriate locations and times to promote awareness and reputation of the product. The commission may seek expert support from public and private institutions as needed and manages legal procedures accordingly.