Nikolenko V. Biological features of the ornamental cultivars and hybrids of Fragaria L. and their application to landscaping in the Crimean foothills

The thesis is devoted to the study of morphological and biological characteristics of ornamental cultivars of genus Fragaria L. in the Crimean foothills. Specific of seasonal development of ornamental cultivars of Fragaria is determined. The two couples of cultivar groups are revealed with different features of shoots system (stoloniferous and stolonless). Differences in inflorescence structure in various groups of cultivars are studied. Correlation between inflorescence type and its morphological structure is defined with the polychasial cymes being provided extended flowering. Correlations between shoot system and foliage in strawberry cultivars are established: foliage degree depends on the number of renewal shoots. Leaves development dependence of soil moisture and air temperature is elucidated with moisture being the leading factor. The most efficient method of stoloniferous cvs vegetative propagation is offered. On the base of ornamental features analysis, a system of Fragaria cvs evaluation is developed. The four highly ornamental cultivars are selected as the best for further use with showing methods of their application in landscape gardening.