Uncovered grape variety. Uncovered grape varieties with photos and descriptions

Sweet grapes are a concentrate of sun and heat. Just a hundred years ago, cultivated fruit-bearing vines grew exclusively in the south, and its clusters were considered exotic even in the middle zone. It was possible to grow technical species in areas with cold winters, but sweet table varieties remained too tender and could not tolerate the harsh climate. Only targeted selection and the persistence of winegrowers made it possible to obtain frost-resistant grapes at the end of the last century. There are more and more varieties and hybrids that can withstand cold every year, and their taste characteristics are constantly improving. Now the sunberry is grown even in Siberia.

History of creation and features of selection

The breeding of frost-resistant grape varieties began under the leadership of I.V. Michurin. At the beginning of the 20th century, the first samples appeared that actually tolerated winter frosts and recurrent spring frosts. Russian Concord, Arctic, Buytur, Northern White, Metallic are varieties representing Michurin selection. Scientist-breeder Ya. I. Potapenko initiated the development of disease-resistant and first non-covering varieties: Suvorovets, Stepnyak, Medovy, Festivalny, Northern Saperavi.

Northern white

In the 60s of the 20th century, the promotion of viticulture to the north was continued in Orenburg by the famous breeder Shatilov. The most valuable frost-resistant hybrids were obtained by selecting wild vine species collected in the Urals and Siberia. This is reflected in the names of the varieties: Amur Early, Amur Black. The enormous work of breeders and enthusiasts has led to the fact that grapes in areas with harsh winters are now grown on an industrial scale. At the same time, its productivity is not inferior to southern plantations.

Today, zoned non-covering varieties have been created for the Urals, Far East, Primorye, and Non-Black Earth Region. Selection work is being carried out in the Smolensk region, Krasnoyarsk, and Altai. The progenitors of frost-resistant grapes are hybrids of European and American varieties with Amur wild species, which are not only adapted to wintering in frost conditions below -30°C, but also need them. They tolerate warm winters with frequent thaws much worse than severe cold.

AmurSha (Amur hybrid of Shatilov)

Uncovered forms of the crop are relevant when grown in open ground in the Middle Zone and Moscow region. Here, winter temperatures also regularly drop below -25°C. Climatic conditions over such a vast territory are very different, so non-covering hybrids in some areas require protection in winter, while covering hybrids can be cultivated without insulation in others.

Frost-resistant varieties differ from their southern counterparts in their ability to regenerate dead tissue. Non-fruiting buds are located in the ground and are activated when old roots die, replacing them with new ones. The vigorous growth characteristic of many hybrids makes it possible to replace dead parts of the plant in one season. New varieties form many ovaries, their number has to be regulated. The winter hardiness of the bushes suffers from being overloaded with fruits.

The sugar content of berries, which previously did not exceed 17%, has reached 24% in recent years in some new varieties. Northern fruits are somewhat smaller in size than southern ones, and their cluster weight is usually less. But selection work continues and there are more and more large table varieties.

The best frost-resistant grape varieties

Grapes can be table and wine. Technical varieties with small berries and small clusters may be of interest as an arched form for covering large surfaces (arbors, courtyards, sheds). Most large table varieties still require removal of the vine from the supports and shelter from frost. Therefore, for the formation of a tall bush, winter hardiness is an important indicator, because such a form is more difficult to prepare for winter.

Description of the most popular varieties in temperate climates and the Moscow region:

Lydia

This is a table variety, an American hybrid of Isabella. Tolerates frosts down to -30°C and is not susceptible to gray rot. Great for covering arches and canopies. The bunch is small, the berries are pink with a pleasant taste, used in winemaking.

Lydia (Pink Isabella)

Aleshenkin (No. 328)

Very early, dessert, conditionally covering grapes. It is distinguished by a large bunch (more than 1 kg), high yield and excellent taste. The berries are conical, yellow-green, contain few seeds and do not fall off the bush until frost.

Aleshenkin

Alpha

Bred in the Far East, but distributed mainly in the Moscow region and Primorye. It is characterized by vigorous growth, increased productivity, and winters well. Belongs to technical varieties, used for landscaping, shoots reach 9 m in length. Bushes are very decorative. The berries have a sugar content of about 19%, black with easily peelable skin.

Odin or Amur breakthrough

The most popular of Potapenko's hybrids. Does not freeze at temperatures of -40°C. The vine is powerful, the clusters are dense, dark purple in color with a crimson tint. Resistant to rot, diseases, pests. Used in the production of wines and juices.

Amur breakthrough (Potapenko-7)

Crystal

One of the hybrids based on Amur grapes (Hungarian selection). It exhibits winter hardiness down to -29°C and is complexly resistant to diseases. The bush is low, the cluster is conical. Berries with a high sugar content, juicy, left on the bush, ripen, do not crack.

Crystal

Sharov's riddle

Bears the name of a famous wine breeder. Does not require shelter down to -34°C. The berries are dark blue with a pronounced strawberry aroma and sugar content up to 22%. Productivity is average. The variety is self-pollinating; there are no peas in clusters. The vine is thin, vigorous, and ripens quickly. With high humidity, bushes are susceptible to oidium.

Sharov's riddle

Skuin 675 or Moscow stable

A complex hybrid not susceptible to major grape diseases. A variety for growing in the north, bred in Moscow. The clusters are small with amber fruits, tightly adjacent to each other, with a pineapple aroma and notes of nutmeg. The vigorous bush can withstand a load of up to 120 buds. All shoots are capable of bearing fruit; each shoot bears at least 2 bunches. Introduced for cultivation to Minnesota (USA), where it is used to make high-quality wines.

White Muscat Shatilova

White Muscat (Shatilova)

It has very large decorative leaves, clusters grow up to 1 kg. Vigorous and high-yielding variety. In the middle zone it ripens in early September. The berries are oval, large, with high taste characteristics. In areas north of Yekaterinburg, the hybrid should be protected from severe frosts.

Grapes that do not require shelter for the winter in the middle zone can provide shelter for more northern regions. You should carefully study the characteristics of the variety before planting and focus on the lower winter temperatures in the region.

Particularly resistant non-covering hybrids

There are grape hybrids whose bushes are able to withstand especially low temperatures and at the same time exhibit accelerated growth rates. The fruits ripen quickly and require less heat. This makes it possible to grow such crops in high-risk areas with harsh winters and unpredictable summer weather.

1. 1. Reline pink seedlis is the most frost-resistant American hybrid (down to -27°C). The fruits are pink, seedless, with a labrusca aroma, suitable for drying, making juices, wine, and eaten fresh. Ripening dates are very early (105 days). Permissible load - 50 eyes per bush.
2. 2. Taiga emerald - a hybrid from the Primorsky Territory, obtained from the American variety Minnesota. The berries are consumed fresh, their sugar content reaches 19.5%. The shoots of this high-yielding variety manage to ripen during the short autumn. It has high frost resistance and is tolerant to mildew.
3. 3. Valiant is a super winter-hardy species, the vine can withstand temperatures down to -47°C. Early ripening. The berries are black and blue with large seeds and a fruity aroma. Some samples had a strawberry flavor. The clusters are moderately dense and can remain on the bushes for a long time.
4. 4. Triumph - an American table variety with vigorous shoots, long conical clusters and large oval fruits. Ripens in the second half of August. Capable of increasing varietal characteristics with age.

Non-covering varieties of American origin also include: Kay Gray, Mure Earley, Venus. When bred, Euro-American hybrids received resistance to phylloxera, which makes them stand out when choosing a variety for planting. Frost resistance of such varieties is slightly lower - from -30 to -34 ° C, but tolerance has been achieved to almost all diseases that plague vineyards.

Kay Gray grapes

Some European frost-resistant species:

• Lando Noir;
• Louise Swenson;
• Somerset Seadleys;
• Prairie Style.

The grape varieties bred in Russia from local relics through selection and selection are not inferior in quality, and in some respects even superior to their foreign relatives. The small-fruited Amur liana has been transformed in the hands of breeders into many varieties that at the same time have frost resistance, excellent presentation and high taste.

Amur grapes grown, for example, in the Smolensk region, show a sugar content of 21.4%. Its vine tolerates frosts below -40°C during snowless periods in open vineyard conditions.

• Vaskovsky hybrids (No. 5 and No. 6);
• Shatilov hybrids (from 2 to 15);
• Latvian variety Gulya;
• Khasansky Bousa and Khasansky sweet;
• Cheremushka Siberian;
• Bashkir early.

Khasansky Bousa

Many other varieties for each region are regionalized or obtained through selection by amateur winegrowers and specialized institutes. But the high characteristics of a hybrid do not yet guarantee successful cultivation and a bountiful harvest. Along with its unique qualities, northern grapes are distinguished by the principles of care, pruning and other features.

Features of growing uncovered varieties

The resistance of the vine, even in the most frost-resistant specimens, does not appear immediately. For the first two years, the bush should be removed from its supports and laid on the ground for shelter before cold weather. After the third season, one lash is left uncovered for testing. If the test is passed and the vine overwintered successfully, the bush can winter without insulation. Because of this feature, all resistant varieties are considered to be conditionally non-covering.

There are several more features in agricultural technology:

1. 1. Northern grapes have high yields. If you do not adjust the fullness of the bush, the harvest will be large, and the winter hardiness of the plant will decrease. The vine will not have time to ripen, and the bush may freeze.
2. 2. Such hybrids tolerate thaws more difficult than frosts. With a prolonged increase in temperature, the plant begins to vegetate and loses varietal resistance to cold. A bush accustomed to frost below -30°C may die at -12°C.
3. 3. Varieties are characterized by vigorous growth. The bushes require regular pruning, removal of shoots, thinning and pinching of vines. Otherwise, the grapes begin to “degenerate” and lose varietal characteristics. The abundance of branches in summer inhibits the ripening of bunches.
4. 4. Pollination is an important stage in crop development. Before purchasing seedlings, you should clarify whether the plant needs pollinators and what type. Some hybrids require help during flowering - spraying, cross-pollination, shaking off scaly caps.

The North of Russia has unique data for growing grapes. Already starting from the Urals, during the winter there are no pests left in the soil that can infect shrubs. Frost-resistant varieties during selection have received increased resistance to the main grape diseases: mildew, oidium, phylloxera, rot and fungal infections. Therefore, chemical treatments of vineyards can be kept to a minimum.

Experienced winegrowers advise excluding mineral mixtures from fertilizing and using organic matter. Thus, the grown crop will be environmentally friendly and safe, which is impossible to achieve in the south with an abundance of insects and diseases.

Many gardeners have learned to grow grapes in the conditions of the Far East, the Urals, and Siberia, and the Moscow region has long been no longer considered a risky region for this crop. Every year the collection of frost-resistant and ultra-early varieties for any climate is replenished. In many areas previously inaccessible to the southern plant, hectares of it are now cultivated. The further goal of dedicated breeders is large table varieties that, without shelter, will be able to survive even harsher winters and give their owners a sweet and aromatic harvest.

This sweet berry contains a huge amount of natural sugars, mainly fructose and glucose. The chemical composition of the product includes a colossal number of useful substances: vitamins, minerals, enzymes. About half of the world's total planted area is occupied by this crop, and for good reason! Thanks to this composition, grapes have medicinal properties and are used as a prophylactic against many diseases. The berry contains a large amount of sugar, which perfectly satisfies hunger and fills a person with energy. The calorie content of 100 g of berries ranges from 43 to 64 kcal, depending on the variety. What else are grapes good for? Berries contain many of the trace elements and minerals we need: potassium, cobalt, manganese, nickel, zinc, chromium, boron, etc. They serve as structural components of enzymes, vitamins, hormones, proteins and other equally important complexes. The first vineyard was planted in Astrakhan, and this happened in 1613, it was at this time that this crop began to be grown in Russia. Grapes are one of the most widespread agricultural crops, the abundance of various varieties of which cannot be counted. Each of us encounters berries every day, since this product is widely represented in any category of food products, and enjoys it with pleasure. And special grape lovers cultivate this plant in their own summer cottage. While much has been written about representatives of warm and temperate climate zones, winter-hardy grape varieties still remain in the shadow of their southern counterparts. For most grape lovers, it remains a mystery which winter-hardy varieties are most popular for Central Russia.

Frost-resistant grape varieties

Freezing of the wood of annuals most often leads to their death. The frost resistance of the grapevine is maximum in mid-winter, during a period of complete dormancy. When the period of sap flow begins, the eyes become vulnerable and can be easily damaged by return frosts. Frost resistance is determined at experimental stations or breeders' sites. To do this, they measure the temperature all winter and see what frosts the young bushes of a given variety could survive. The figure is approximate. In practice, the bushes do not withstand the declared frosts.

Frost-resistant varieties differ: weakly resistant (up to -20°C), medium resistant (up to 22°C), relatively resistant (-24).

Frost-resistant varieties are those that can survive down to -27°C. The frost resistance indicated in the description of the variety does not mean that uncovered bushes can survive several months at this temperature without loss. It indicates that the ground part does not freeze or freezes slightly when the temperature drops for several days. Usually, in this case, the immature parts of the shoots die, and those that remain after pruning are not damaged.

For gardeners who cover all grape bushes, the frost resistance indicator is not particularly important. It only adjusts the degree of protection. But often bushes are planted near arches or gazebos. Usually these are high-standard varieties, the sleeves of which are difficult to remove and attach to supports every year. In such cases, frost-resistant grapes are used.

In addition to the term “frost resistance,” there is also “winter hardiness.” This is the ability to withstand several factors that negatively affect survival in total. This includes humidity, snow depth and other factors. Typically, varieties that are not damaged by frost are classified as frost-resistant.

Frost-resistant grape variety Buffalo

A grape variety with American roots. The result of hybridization of the varieties “Herbert” and “Watkins”. Bred at Cornell University, New York. It is considered the best variety in the group of Isabella varieties due to its high yield, large and attractive bunches and excellent taste. Although there are winegrowers who have a different opinion about Buffalo.

The bushes are vigorous. The vine is dark brown. Leaves with felt pubescence, large. The clusters are medium-sized, up to 0.5 kg, round-conical in shape, with a classic isabella appearance. The berries weigh up to 5 g, dark blue, almost black, very tasty (relative to the isabella group). The variety is extremely productive. In arched formations, up to a hundredweight of berries are obtained from the bush. In our climate it ripens in early September. In winter it does not require shelter. Mildew is mildly affected. 7-9 eye pruning is recommended. Cuttings take root extremely poorly.

Frost-resistant grape variety Isabella

The most popular winter-hardy variety, bred since the times of the USSR. The culture prefers a temperate climate, but grows successfully in many regions. An uncovered grape variety is suitable for the Black Earth Region, and is most often in demand by winemakers. The fruits are round in shape, slightly elongated, about 20 mm long. The dark blue skin is covered with a white coating. The pulp is slimy, sour with a tart taste, but is saturated with a pronounced aroma.

Frost-resistant grape variety Lydia

A good non-covering grape variety for the Krasnodar Territory and other regions with a temperate climate. In the northern regions, the vine is covered for the winter. The round berries become brownish-red when ripe. The fruits are famous for their sharp, pleasant aroma and are ideal for making wine and juice. Harvest ripening occurs after 150 days.

Advice! The winter-hardy variety Lydia is excellent for making wine vinegar.

Frost-resistant grape variety Aleshenkin

Aleshenkin is an early dessert grape, uncovered. He is also called Alyosha or No. 328. It has an excellent taste and beautiful appearance - large clusters up to two kilograms, the berries are cone-shaped, yellow-green in color.

Advantages:

• very early;
• does not require special care and special agricultural technology;
• cuttings take root well;
• good yield without fertilizing;
• few seeds in berries;
• excellent taste;
• The berries stay on the vine in frosts down to -25°C.

Flaws:

• the underground part is not resistant to frost;
• The berries need a growth stimulator, otherwise peas are likely.

Frost-resistant grape variety Lady's Fingers

It has a unique shape of berries that look like lady fingers. Hence the name. The official name is Khusayne Bely. Large sweet berries are arranged in large clusters. The taste is excellent, sweet, with notes of sourness. Raisins are most often used for making raisins, as they have no seeds.

This is a grape variety native to Central Asia. Very demanding of sun and warmth. It has a long ripening period, so it is not suitable for central Russia. Few winegrowers grow it. With good care and favorable weather, as well as periodic feeding, you can still get a good harvest.

Advantages:

• high productivity;
• strong growth;
• excellent taste;
• absence of seeds.

Flaws:

• long ripening period - 130-160 days;
• instability of the harvest by season;
• long period of rooting of cuttings;
• low frost resistance - up to -11°C;
• This grape is very loved by wasps and birds;
• extremely susceptible to various diseases - fungus, oidium, powdery mildew.

Frost-resistant grape variety Tukay

This early ripening grape is distinguished by its vigorous growth and high yield. The bunches of the Tukai variety are very large - they can reach a weight of up to 1 kg, and the berries are medium in size (2-6 g). The advantages of this variety include the ability to store berries for a long time (until April) and resistance to mold. The main disadvantage of the Tukai variety is considered to be low disease resistance.

Frost-resistant grape variety Codryanka

This is also an early, vigorous table variety, the main advantage of which is its high resistance to diseases. The bunches of this grape can reach a weight of 600 g. The yield of the Kodryanka variety is excellent. A distinctive feature of this grape is the low acidity of the berries. You can eat them already when the sugar content reaches 12%. Like many other winter-hardy grape varieties, excellent for the Urals and other cold regions, Kodryanka produces berries that are not too sweet, but at the same time quite tasty. Some disadvantage of this variety is the tendency to peas.

Diseases and pests of frost-resistant grapes

Frost-resistant grapes resist diseases quite well, but they sometimes affect plants.

• Powdery mildew leads to poor growth of grapes - the leaves become curly and covered with a gray coating, the berries spoil. The disease is treated with Thanos, Thiovit Jet, and Topaz.
• Downy mildew (mildew) leaves oily yellow spots on leaves. A gray coating appears on the reverse side of the leaf, and the affected parts rot. Infected areas of the bush are removed, the rest is treated with fungicides (Thanos, Mikal, Antrakol).
• Black spot appears as red marks on the fruit, vine or leaves. Subsequently, the spots become discolored. With widespread damage, it is impossible to save the vineyard, so it is necessary to carry out preventive spraying of the plant with antifungal fungicides (Thanos, Teovit Jet, Topaz).

The vines are also attacked by insects. Vineyard owners periodically have to protect fruits from pest attacks.

• Wasps. Sweet fruits attract winged insects, which pierce the shell of the berry, drawing out the juice. A damaged bunch quickly deteriorates. Therefore, to save grapes from wasps, you can destroy wasp nests early in the spring or set traps with insecticides. It is also recommended to smoke out the wasps or cover the vine with breathable insect netting.
• Mite. On grapes there are web, leaf and felt varieties of the insect. Plants are treated with fungicides against mite attacks.

The grapes are also attacked by rodents - mice. They nibble the buds of the vine during wintering. Covering varieties are especially susceptible to this. Ultrasonic devices are used to repel rodents.

Grapes are rightfully considered “sunny berries”. It is customary to think of it as a heat-loving species that requires care and painstaking work. Growing vines in regions with cold winters is associated with many difficulties, as proven by the experience of many winegrowers. But thanks to the work of modern breeders, it has become possible to obtain harvests even in the northern regions. The most famous varieties include, for example, “Anniversary of Novocherkassk”.

Moscow is on the list of world capitals with the harshest climate. So how to determine the best grape varieties for the Moscow region, a region that also does not have favorable weather conditions?

Frost-resistant varieties

Vines with increased resistance to adverse weather conditions are gaining increasing popularity. This is due to the fact that northern grapes are able to withstand a significant decrease in temperature without special shelter. This characteristic helps reduce the cost of maintaining a vineyard and requires much less effort and time from its owner. Due to reduced labor intensity, they are favorites among beginning winegrowers. Often, these grape varieties have not only increased frost resistance, but also good immunity. Thanks to the efforts of breeders, we have a lot of northern varieties that not only keep up with their southern counterparts in yield, but also surpass them, which makes it possible to grow grapes in the Moscow region. The varieties of non-covering grapes for the Moscow region are very diverse, and choosing the right one needs to be approached comprehensively; you also need to choose varieties that are resistant to diseases.

"Anniversary of Novocherkassk"

"Jubilee Novocherkassk" is ideal for growing in the Moscow region. It rightfully takes its place in the top ten table varieties. It has frost resistance down to – 25 0 C and early ripening. Its greatest advantage is the clusters, reaching 1.5 -3 kg. The fruits have a harmonious, moderately sweet taste, juicy and crispy. The peel is not felt when consumed. The color is light pink with a purple tint. The shape of the berries is oval. "Yubilei Novocherkassk" has a good level of resistance to the main pathogens of grape diseases. It has no special care requirements and is able to successfully take root and bear fruit in almost any soil. Due to the fact that “Yubilei Novocherkassk” does not have a tendency to pea, it produces consistently high and high-quality yields. This species is quite easy to propagate. It takes root well both when grafted onto other bushes and as its own root crop. requires additional care and shelter only in the first 1-3 years of life, while the root system is not sufficiently developed.

"Kishmish Radiant"

"Kishmish Radiant" is one of the most famous table varieties in the world. Despite the fact that it cannot boast of significant frost resistance, “Radiant” is able to thrive even in northern regions. This is achieved by winter shelter. During the ripening period, this sultana variety is covered with many pink tassels with a delicate purple tint. Thanks to its amazing taste and yield qualities, it has become a breeding basis for many other vines. Ripening period is early or medium (120-130 days), depending on climatic conditions. The harvest begins in mid-August - early September. The average weight of one bone is 0.6 kg, although with proper care and attention it can reach 1 kg. The grapes have parameters of 24x22 mm and a weight of 4-6 g. The level of fruiting of the shoots is high and amounts to 70%. Fruiting coefficient 1.9. The crop is able to withstand transportation and storage.

Minuses

1. Able to withstand frosts down to -15 0 C without shelter;
2. Extremely sensitive to spring frosts - do not rush to open;
3. Needs regular crop rationing and pruning;
4. Without regular feeding and when the soil is waterlogged, it quickly loses some of its taste properties.

"Tason"

This vigorous grape, with proper care, can produce record yields. - one of the most famous representatives of table species. It belongs to early or very early vines. From the moment the buds swell until the grapes ripen, 100-110 days pass. Even in cool areas you can get your first harvest before mid-April. The number of fruitful shoots is 55%, and the fruiting coefficient is 1.1, which are good indicators. The weight of the bunches can reach 0.5-0.6 kg, and sometimes 1.2 kg. The berries are very large, oval. Their dimensions are 25x18 mm. They have an uneven white color with redness, simulating blush. The taste is distinguished by bright nutmeg notes and a high level of sugar accumulation (21%). The fruits have a good presentation. They tolerate storage and transportation at a decent level. An undeniable advantage is frost resistance. The threshold of this plant is -23 0 C. Resistance to pathogens extends to gray rot, mildew, and powdery mildew, but it is sensitive to other pathogens. Fungi can attack the current crop and the future, depleting the plant for the year ahead.

"Crystal"

This grape variety is classified as technical. Despite the small size of the clusters (170-210 g) and berries (1-2.5 g), it has earned the warmest reviews from winemakers. The grapes are oval in shape and the same size. As they mature, the green color of the berries takes on a warmer yellow hue. The taste is harmonious, the sugar content is 18%, which is ideal for wine.

The popularity is due to the high level of yield with average growth vigor. This plant can withstand a load of 50-60 buds. Shoot fertility is 90%, and the yield coefficient is 1.3. This variety benefits not from the size of the fruits, but from their quantity, which is not a disadvantage for a wine variety. It is rightfully considered one of the most popular grapes in the Moscow region for the production of dry wines.

It is classified as an early or very early variety. The growing season takes 110-125 days, depending on weather conditions. Even among frost-resistant grape varieties, “Crystal” stands out favorably. It can withstand temperatures down to -29 0 C without protection.

Flaws

1. The need for regular pruning of shoots and leaves. Neglecting this measure may lead to crop failure;
2. Low resistance to fungal diseases (with the exception of gray rot), which dictates the need for preventive treatments;
3. Adverse weather conditions can lead to a decrease in taste. This leads to a decrease in its suitability for the production of alcoholic beverages.

"Christina"

Christina occupies a leading position among winegrowers in the Moscow region. It gained its popularity thanks to its tasty, sweet fruits. It does not require increased attention from the owner and exhibits good frost resistance (down to -23 0 C). "Christina" has a very impressive appearance. The clusters are medium or large, cylindrical in shape. The berries are oval, bright pink, plain. Disadvantages include the uneven size of the grapes and the possibility of peas.

"Pearl of Saba"

“Pearl of Saba” came to us from Hungary and quickly gained recognition among both professional and inexperienced gardeners. The reason for this was its phenomenal unpretentiousness, frost resistance (-27 0 C) and resistance to pests. The berries are highly sweet, juicy and have a pleasant aroma. The clusters have a rich green-yellow color, which makes the plant spectacular.

"Isabel"

The “Lydia” (“Isabella”) grape variety is excellent for the Moscow region. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that, along with excellent taste, it has a sufficient amount of tannins. This makes it suitable for making white wines. During the ripening of the crop, it acquires a large number of small dark blue-red clusters. They weigh 200-250 g, but there is an opinion that with proper care you can get fruits weighing up to 2.5 kg. The weight of one berry is about 3 g. The berries have an unusual taste, in which notes of raspberries and strawberries clearly appear.

In the Moscow region it is becoming increasingly widespread due to its frost resistance. It can survive temperature drops down to -27 0 C.

It has sufficient resistance to oidium, phylloxera and mildew - the most common pests.

"Transfiguration"

It is relatively new, but already well proven. The bush is vigorous and has good rooting rates. It has early ripening periods (110-120 days). The bunches weigh 0.7-1.5 kg, but with a successful combination of circumstances they can reach 2%. The average weight of a grape is 14 g. The fruits have a uniform light pink color and look very impressive, as can be seen from the many photos of this species. The Transfiguration grapes have a pleasant, harmonious taste. Along with high sugar content (18%), there is pronounced sourness (6%). Productivity is high. From one bush you can collect about 20 kg of fruit. Pea peas are uncharacteristic for him. It has average resistance to fungi, which requires the gardener to carry out periodic preventative spraying. Due to the high sweetness and thinness of the skin, it is susceptible to attack by wasps. Strengths include frost resistance (-23 0 C).

Flaws

• With excess humidity and overload of the bush, the taste characteristics sharply deteriorate.

Landing

When growing winter-hardy varieties, you need to take into account a number of features:

1. The landing site should be well lit. Grapes grown in the northern regions are especially in need of implementing this recommendation. Sun deficiency can lead to an extension of the ripening period, loss of crop weight and deterioration in taste characteristics.
2. The area for the garden bed should not be below the main ground level. Overmoistening of the soil causes fungal infections and root rot.
3. The landing pit should be prepared in advance. Its parameters should be 60x60x60 cm. A drainage consisting of 20 cm of gravel or broken brick should be placed at the bottom. A layer of soil is placed tightly on top of it, mixed with organic fertilizers, sand and gravel in equal parts.
4. You need to keep a distance between individual bushes. Vigorous species require a distance of 2 m, average growth strength - 1.5 m, low-growing species - 1 m.
5. Many winegrowers recommend placing a 50 cm long hollow plastic piece near the root of the plant before filling it with soil. They are very convenient to use for introducing fertilizers and watering.
6. Most experts recommend using shelter for plants during the first 3 years of life, regardless of their frost resistance.

Up to -29 °C - and tastier than Spartan, but not as frost-resistant. Similar to raisins Jupiter and Venus. Can be grown as an uncovered plant on arches, arbors, etc.

Down to -29°C, you need to be prepared for the fact that once every 6-7 years it will completely freeze to the level of snow. At the same time, next year Jupiter will quickly “beat off” new shoots from dormant buds and it will be possible to get a small harvest. We will test for lower temperatures if Mother Nature allows. Seedless variety, early ripening (115-125 days). The bushes are medium-sized. The clusters weigh 1 kg on average. The berries are large, weighing 4-5 grams, and color from red to blue-red when fully ripe. The pulp is fleshy and juicy, good taste with a slight nutmeg aroma. The skin is thin and durable. Sugar accumulation up to 21%. There may be freezing and death of the buds in frosty winters and freezing springs, fluctuating temperatures (plus during the day - below zero at night).

Up to -28°C and below, recommended for uncovered crops (arches, arbors, etc.). Brown (1977) variety, early ripening, 120 days). Bushes have above average growth vigor. The clusters are medium, from 200 g and above, cylindrical-conical, of medium density. The berries are small and medium 2-3 grams, round, blue. The pulp is fleshy and juicy, the taste is harmonious, with a light strawberry-nutmeg and blackcurrant aroma. The skin is not thick, separated by a “bag”. Seedlessness class I. Sugar content 18-20%, acidity 6-7%.

Down to -32°C, which makes it possible to grow it as a semi-covered or uncovered, seedless grape variety. Selection: USA. Late ripening (late September-early October), isabella type. The growth vigor of the bushes is medium to large. The flower is bisexual. The bunch is medium and large, wide, conical or almost cylindrical, with one, rarely two, wings, rather loose or dense. The berry is medium, round or oval, purple-red, dull, with a pronounced nutmeg. Sugar content 25%, acidity 8.8 g/l. The ripening of shoots is average. Productivity is average.

Up to -34°C, early ripening (115-125 days). Self-rooted bushes are vigorous. The clusters are medium-sized and large. The berries are round, yellow-green, with an average weight of 3-4 g. Seedless category I, rudiments are either absent or very small, practically not felt when eating. Increased resistance to fungal diseases and frost. Harmonious taste with strawberry flavor. Bunches 800-1200 g.

Up to -38°C. This is the only variety in the world of uncovered, white-berry and tasty grapes that completely lacks Labrusca. Ripens in the Kyiv area by August 25. We recommend cutting it for wine or juice from September 10 to 15, since hanging on the bush by this time La Crescent gains more sugar and taste. The clusters are medium, medium loose. The berries are round, white, small, weighing 1.5-2 grams with a peach-apricot flavor. The average sugar content is 24.5% (22.6-27.6%), pH factor averages 3.00 (2.63-3.15). The yield on young bushes is moderate; as the perennial vine grows, the yield increases greatly. The bunches can hang on the bushes for a long time; cracking of the berries and rotting were not observed even in humid conditions.

Up to -29°C, can be cultivated in an uncovered high-standard crop and has high bud resistance. (synonym I-8-7-9) - table form of grapes. Ripening period is early or early-mid. In Kyiv conditions it ripens after August 20. It is distinguished by very strong bush growth. The ripening of the shoots is good. The clusters are medium dense, less often loose, most often conical or shapeless, with an average weight of 800-1000 g. The berries are very large 35 x 31 mm, (average weight 14-16 g), individual - 40 x 35 mm, (20-25 g) , white, harmonious taste, with a slight nutmeg aftertaste. The pulp is fleshy and juicy, the skin is moderately dense and quite strong, easily eaten. Sugar content 17-23%, acidity - 6-8 l. Fruitful shoots 80-90%, number of bunches per shoot.

Up to -35-40°C. A variety with a medium ripening period and moderate growth vigor. The clusters are small and dense. The berries are medium, green-white, round, with an average weight of 3 grams. Sugar accumulation up to 20%, with moderate acidity. Productive and stable variety. Compared to other hybrid varieties, the buds open relatively late, which reduces the risk of damage from late spring frosts. Sensitive to drought. Resistant to fungal diseases.

Up to -38°C. The berries are round and blue. Wine Quality and Characteristics: Marquette exhibits the cherry and blackcurrant aromas characteristic of many hybrids. It can be much more complex, with integrated notes of blackberry, pepper, plum, tobacco, leather, and spice. Marquette wine is best used when making a medium-bodied red table wine. Harvesting maturity occurs in early September.

Up to -35 °C, at temperatures below -40 ° kidney survival is 50%. Prairie star grapes are early ripening and vigorous. The crowns are long, slightly loose with a characteristic "C" curve shape. The average crown weight is 177-200 g on chernozem soils; on light or less fertile soils, the crown weight may be slightly less. Prairie Star sometimes does not pollinate well with rain in the early stages of flowering. For better pollination and fruit set of Prairie star, it is advisable to pinch off the ends of the apical shoots immediately before flowering. The berries are round, medium in size; yellow, with a thick skin, but not bag-like. Average weight 2.5-3 g.

Up to -34°C, which makes it possible to grow it without cover. Frontignac is a red wine grape variety, released in 1996. Medium ripening period, in the Kiev region it ripens in early September. The bushes are vigorous and begin to bear fruit early. The clusters are medium, medium dense. The berries are black, small, round. The clusters can hang on the bushes for a long time, accumulates sugar well up to 24-26%, but the acidity is also high. Even in wet years, damage to berries by gray rot and cracking was practically not observed. The yield is plentiful; sometimes crop rationing is required.

Down to -34°C, a gray-berry variety of Frontignac from which white wines are made. The vine has essentially the same characteristics as Frontignac. However, the wine is very different, with aromas of peach, apricot, pineapple and citrus on the palate without a grassy or labrusque aftertaste. This variety has not been tested at the Geneva Experimental Station.

Down to -29°C, used for the production of high-quality white wines of various styles and juices. The growth vigor of the bushes is great. The flower is bisexual. The clusters are small, medium density and dense. The weight of the maximum bunches reaches 610 - 645 g. The berries are medium round, white, golden, with high sugar accumulation. A grape variety with a medium ripening period (in the Kiev region it ripens in early to mid-September). The harvest for wine production is harvested in mid-late September. Seyval blanc is resistant to fungal diseases and has increased winter hardiness.

Up to -35 ° C, wine grape variety, early ripening (115-125 days). Growth force is medium-strong. Medium sized bunch (60g-160g, average 126g), 3g berries, deep golden color when fully ripe. The wine has a floral aroma and some astringency. Vinifera type grape, reminiscent of muscadet. The ES 6-16-30 grape is very resistant to disease and grows with moderate vigor, used for making table and dessert wines of very high quality.

Down to -28°C - technical grape variety, very early ripening period 110-115 days. The growth force is strong. The clusters are cylindrical-conical, medium in size, weighing 150-200 g, moderately dense. The berries are medium, weighing 2 g (14 x 16 mm), round, amber. The taste is nutmeg.

Up to -30°C, technical grape variety, very early ripening period 110-115 days. Growth vigor is average. The clusters are cylindrical-conical, medium in size, weighing 200 g, moderately dense. The berries are medium, weighing 2 grams, round, white, pinkish in the sun. The taste is harmonious. The pulp is juicy, the skin is thin but durable. Sugar content 20.2%, acidity 8.9 g/l. The ripening of shoots is satisfactory (up to 80%). Fruitful shoots 85%, number of bunches per shoot 1.3. The load is 60-80 buds per bush with a pruning length of fruit vines of 3-4 buds. The harvest is stored on the bush for a month after ripening and is used to make table and dessert wines.

Up to -32°C, a vinous variety, early ripening, close to the Marshall Foch variety, but more vigorous. The clusters are medium 100-200 g, dense. The berries are small, 0.5-1 g, round, purple, thin skin. Attractive to wasps. Wines from Leon Millau are of high quality, velvety with good structure and pleasant aroma. At blind tastings in Germany, wines from Léon Millau were not inferior to wines from European grape varieties.

Up to -33°C, a wine grape variety, which makes it possible to grow it as an uncovered, early ripening grape. Technical maturity occurs in early September. The bushes are weak to medium-sized. Bunches weighing 200-300 g. The berries are blue-black, round. Marshall Foch grows well in sandy soils, but vigorous rootstocks are recommended in heavy soils. Productivity is average. To increase the yield of the Marshall Foch grape variety, it is recommended to increase the load of the bush with eyes followed by breaking off the fruitless shoots.

Up to -30°C, which makes it possible to grow it semi-covered or uncovered - it depends on the location and weather conditions. Table grape variety of Canadian selection. In the conditions of Kiev, it ripens in early September. Bushes of great vigor, with peculiar drooping leaves. The flower is bisexual. The clusters are loose, weighing 500-800 g, the berries are oval, weighing 8.6 g on average, dark blue, harmonious, pleasant taste with plum notes. The skin is dense, the flesh is fleshy and juicy.

Grapes by their nature are a heat-loving crop and come from countries with a favorable climate. However, amateur winegrowers want to grow sunny berries in the conditions of central Russia, in the Urals, Siberia and the Far East. For this purpose, grape varieties with increased resistance to frost have been bred. It is not difficult to obtain generous harvests of sweet berries in harsh conditions, but for this it is useful to know the intricacies of growing and caring for grapes.

The concept of frost resistance of grape varieties

Viticulture reference books provide a definition of the frost resistance of a variety. Frost resistance of grapes is the ability of its vegetative system in winter to briefly withstand a decrease in temperature to the values ​​​​specified in the characteristics of the variety, without damage or with minimal damage to the eyes of an annual shoot. In short, this is the variety’s resistance to critical negative temperatures. This means that at a certain low temperature, those parts of the plant that subsequently determine the fruiting and productivity of the crop do not die. With a sharp drop in air temperature in winter, first the buds (eyes) of the grapevine freeze, then the bark and cambium of the plant’s wood are damaged. This applies primarily to young seedlings of one and two years of age. Such a characteristic as frost resistance is determined experimentally for each grape variety. The degree of frost resistance is derived based on the results of long-term observations of plant development in the conditions of an experimental station. This indicator is a nominal (standard) value. In real conditions, sometimes significantly different from favorable ones, the frost resistance of grapes turns out to be lower than declared.

Table: grouping of grape varieties by degree of frost resistance

Group number	Frost resistance characteristics varieties	Critical temperatures hail WITH	Absolute minimum temperature for uncovered culture, hail WITH
1	Non-frost-resistant	-17–18	-15
2	Weakly frost-resistant	-19–20	-17
3	Medium frost resistance	-21–22	-19
4	Relatively frost-resistant	-23–24	-21
5	Increased frost resistance	-25–27	-23

At critical negative temperatures, up to 50% of fruit buds (eyes) may freeze. A further decrease in temperature increases this figure to 80%. Frost damage to annual seedlings, during which not only the generative buds freeze, but also the wood, causes the death of the entire bush. The frost resistance indicator of a variety is of fundamental importance when growing grapes in uncovered crops. As a rule, these are high-standard formations in the form of gazebos, high hedges, arches and arbors, where the sleeves of grapes are not removed from the supports, but overwinter in the open.

In contrast to frost resistance (the resistance of fruit plants to critical negative temperatures), winter hardiness characterizes their resistance to the sum of unfavorable factors (including low temperatures) in winter. As a rule, most fruit crops that exhibit high frost resistance are also highly winter-hardy

Yu.V. Trunov, professor, doctor of agriculture. sciences

"Fruit growing" LLC Publishing House "KolosS", Moscow, 2012

Features of growing frost-resistant varieties

The success of growing grapes in certain climatic conditions critically depends on the temperature regime of a given region. It is known that the need for the amount of heat and sunny days for different grape varieties differs significantly. Low negative temperatures sharply limit the use of varieties that are particularly demanding of heat. When grape bushes are damaged by severe frosts, they die on a massive scale. The highest degree of frost resistance appears in plants during deep winter dormancy. During the transition at the end of winter from organic to forced dormancy, and then to the beginning of the growing season, the frost resistance of grapes decreases. Returning spring frosts affect the most cold-sensitive flower buds. The minimum probability of frost damage to grapes is during the period of bud opening and flowering. The vine is the most resistant to frost. Unlike flower buds and grape roots, it can withstand even twenty-degree frosts. If, as a result of very severe cold, the vine freezes, in the spring new replacement shoots grow from dormant buds and the bush is restored within one growing season.

Caring for frost-resistant grape varieties is basically the same as caring for conventional varieties. It consists of loosening the soil directly under the bushes and between the rows, regular watering, weed control, proper formation and timely pruning of bushes, and the prevention of fungal diseases. Of decisive importance in this case is the choice of the variety most suitable for specific climatic conditions, the time and place of planting grape seedlings. In areas where cover varieties are grown, in winter the grapes must be covered with suitable materials, which provides protection from damage by frost and as a result of sudden winter thaws. Seedlings of frost-resistant grapes up to four years of age are subject to mandatory shelter for the winter, regardless of whether the variety is covered or not.

Video: snow cover of grape bushes

Despite the fact that frost-resistant varieties can tolerate severe frosts, they require certain preparations for winter. Grapes removed from the trellises should be laid on the ground, or better yet, on boards, roofing felt or wooden panels. Then the sleeves and vines are pressed down with coniferous spruce branches, pieces of foam plastic, linoleum and covered with agrofibre folded in several layers, and on top with a film to protect them from moisture. Under a snowdrift, grapes covered in this way will safely overwinter even in severe frosts and icing. It has been experimentally established that a 10 cm height of a snowdrift keeps the grapes at ten degrees positive temperature.

Usually, somewhere at the end of October, I remove my grapes from the trellis, prune them, always leaving 3-4 large vines, and on each - 1 replacement branch and 1 fruiting vine. I remove weak and crooked shoots coming from the root, and I also trim the shoots that bear fruit this year to the fruiting vine, without leaving a stump. I cut out old and gnarled shoots with cracked bark coming from the root at the base. After I cut all the grapes, I lay them on the ground, pressing the vines with sticks so that they do not spring. So he waits until spring.

O. Strogova, experienced gardener, Samara

Grapes bear fruit exclusively on the current year's growth, annual ripened stems - vines. Therefore, annual shoots are the basis of the harvest. Seedlings of the second year must be pruned in early spring so that the skeletal branches of the bush begin to form. Starting from the age of three, in the spring, grape shoots that are open after winter are tied onto previously prepared supports - trellises. Grape bushes of covering varieties are pruned in two stages: in the fall - before covering the bushes before the onset of frost and in the spring - after opening the bushes before buds open and the beginning of the growing season. When pruning, such a number of eyes (future fruit-bearing shoots) is left that ensures a high yield without reducing the vigor of the bush. The number of buds remaining after pruning is called the bush load.

Video: pruning a young grape bush

Pruning grapes of uncovered varieties has its own characteristics: bushes are pruned mainly in the autumn-winter period, two to three weeks after the leaves fall, and continue throughout the winter at zero or positive (+3–5 º C) temperatures until the buds begin to open . Sleeves of non-covering varieties are fixed on arches, gazebos, and walls of buildings.

Early frost-resistant grape varieties

In the southern regions, grapes can ripen without loss until mid-autumn. When growing this crop in areas with a fairly short warm period and the possibility of early autumn frosts, the time from flowering to full ripening of the crop should be reduced as much as possible. Therefore, the varieties zoned for the Central, North-Western and Ural regions have a short growing season, increased frost resistance and are classified as super-early and early. These varieties include the Krasa Severa, Muromets, Timur, Agat Donskoy, Talisman, Kodryanka and a number of others grapes.

Table: early varieties of frost-resistant grapes

Name varieties	Region growing	Term maturation	Size and bunch weight	Fruit (color, weight)	Taste fruits	Moroso durability	Resistant to diseases and pests
Astronaut (Black early)	Central, Central Black Earth, Northwestern	Very early 110 days	Average, 200–400 g	Dark purple, 2.5–4 g	Sweet, simple, pleasant, no fragrance	-23 ºС
Timur (white)	Central, Central Black Earth, Northwestern	Very early 105–110 days	Large, 400–700 g	White with an amber tint, 6–8 g	Sweet, slightly tart, with a nutmeg aroma	-25 ºС	Resistant to mildew, gray rot
Beauty of the North (Olga)	Central Black Earth, Belarus, Ukraine	Very early 110 days	Average, 300–500 g	White with a pinkish tint, 3–5 g	Sweet and sour, pleasant refreshing	-25–26 ºС	Susceptible to oidium and mildew, resistant to gray rot
Codrianca	Nizhnevolzhsky, Uralsky, North Caucasus, Belarus	Very early 110–118 days	Large, 400–600 g (can be up to 1.5 kg)	Dark purple with a waxy coating, 6–8 g	Sweet, harmonious, very juicy	-23 ºС	Comprehensive resistance to major diseases
Muromets	Nizhnevolzhsky, Uralsky, North Caucasus, Ukraine	Very early 105–115 days	Average, up to 400 g	Dark purple with a bluish tinge, 4–5 g	Sweet, simple, harmonious	-25–26 ºС	Susceptible to oidium, resistant to mildew
Rusbol (Kishmish Mirage)	Central, Central Black Earth, Srednevolzhsky, Belarus	Early, 115–125 days	Large, 400–600 g (can be up to 1.0–1.5 kg)	Light golden, translucent, 3–4 g	Sweet, juicy, with a slight nutmeg flavor	-25 ºС
Agat Donskoy	Ural, North Caucasian	Early, 115–120 days	Large, 400–600 g	Dark blue with a waxy coating, 4–6 g	Pleasant, simple, sweet, no flavor	-26 ºС	High resistance to mildew and gray rot
Mascot (Kesha-1)	Central, Central Black Earth, Northwestern	Mid-early, 125–135 days	Very large 800–1100 g	White with an amber tint, with a waxy coating, 12–16 g	Harmonious sweet and sour, with nutmeg aroma	-25ºС	High resistance to fungal diseases and gray rot

Most early varieties are characterized by:

• high yield of bushes;
• good taste of fruits;
• self-pollinating (due to bisexual flowers);
• full ripening of the vine;
• versatility of use (fresh and in juices, drinks, wines).

The Talisman grape variety has flowers of one type (female), so for pollination it needs appropriate pollinating varieties.

Photo gallery: features of various varieties of early grapes

The Krasa Severa grapes have a very early ripening period and are known as medicinal due to the high content of folic acid (vitamin B9). The Cosmonaut variety is susceptible to mildew and oidium, fungicide treatment is required. These grapes have an exquisite sweet taste with a slight tartness and muscat tint. Thanks to the large clusters, the Kodryanka variety belongs to to the highest yielding Unlike most early varieties, Talisman grapes have flowers of a functionally female type and require additional pollination by other varieties. When growing this variety in the North Caucasus and Lower Volga regions, protective shelter for the winter is not required

Despite the great similarity in characteristics, early varieties have a number of differences. For example, the high content of folic acid in berries has brought the Krasa Severa grape its medicinal fame. Grapes also differ in their resistance to fungal diseases and the need for protection in winter. Varieties that are susceptible to mildew or oidium must be treated with fungicidal preparations during the growing season. The timing and frequency of processing depend on the specific grape variety.

Given the relatively high degree of frost resistance, in areas south of the Central Black Earth Zone, grapes can be grown in a non-covered crop. However, in the event of a winter with little snow or very severe frosts, the bushes need shelter to avoid freezing of flower buds and wood. This especially applies to young plants in which the thickness of the woody cover of the vine and sleeves is insufficient.

Video: early varieties for the Moscow region and the North-Western region

Grape varieties with increased frost resistance

Thanks to active breeding work, the growing area for frost-resistant grapes has expanded significantly towards the northern regions, and now the border of its cultivation runs along the Smolensk-Tver-Ivanovo-Kazan-Ufa line. The most frost-resistant varieties are Northern Early, Platovsky, Crystal, Zilga, Korinka Russian, Pamyat Dombkovskaya. The grapes of these varieties can withstand frosts from -28 ° C to -32 ° C. However, it is worth considering that when grown in more northern regions, the bushes require good shelter for the winter. In areas with mild winters and in the absence of sharp temperature fluctuations during the winter, the grapes can be left unsheathed or only lightly covered.

The table variety Pamyat Dombkovskaya belongs to the raisin (seedless) group. The grapes ripen very early, the growing season is 110–115 days. The bushes are vigorous, have bisexual flowers and are self-pollinating. The yield of the variety is very high, on average 8.5–9 kg/bush. The varietal characteristics state frost resistance down to minus twenty-eight degrees, but it is recommended to cover the grapes for the winter. Increased resistance to diseases and pests is one of the main advantages of the variety. The disadvantages include periodic overloading of bushes with bunches. This causes the berries to grind and reduce their juiciness. All of the above qualities make it possible to grow Pamyat Dombkovskaya grapes throughout Russia.

The Platovsky grape variety is known primarily for its unpretentiousness in cultivation and produces consistently good yields even under unfavorable weather conditions

Main characteristics of the Platovsky grape variety:

1. Mainly grown as a technical variety.
2. The harvest ripens quickly, in 110–115 days.
3. The berries are very juicy, with a harmonious taste and high sugar content (21.3%).
4. Productivity ranges from 3.5 to 5 kg per bush.
5. The growth vigor of the bushes is average, the variety is self-pollinating.
6. It has high frost resistance (-29 ° C), therefore in the North Caucasus region it is often grown in uncovered crops.
7. It has increased resistance to fungal diseases and immunity to phylloxera.
8. One of the best varieties for making high-quality dry wines.

Video: Platovsky grape variety

The Early TSHA grape harvest ripens very early, within 110–115 days. The grapes of this variety do not stand out for their special size: on medium-sized bushes of average weight, the berries (about 2 g) are collected in medium-sized clusters (weight 75–90 g). Usually one bush produces about 3.5 kg of fruit. The flowers are bisexual, so there is no need for additional pollination. The variety has low (40–60%) resistance to fungal diseases and pests (affected by spider mites). Frost resistance of grapes is regulated down to -28 ° C. But given that the variety is approved for cultivation in all regions of the Russian Federation, light shelter is required for the winter in the northern regions.

Due to the good taste of the berries with the presence of pineapple aroma, the Early TSHA variety is used as a universal variety, for fresh consumption and for processing into juices, compotes and wines

Noteworthy are the grape varieties that successfully grow and bear fruit in Siberia: Zhemchug Saba, Rusven, Amirkhan, Aleshenkin, Arcadia. And this is not a complete list of varieties that ripen in harsh climates with short summers and long, very cold winters. Today, grapes, which until recently were considered a purely southern crop, have firmly taken their place on the plots of Siberian gardeners.

Video: features of frost-resistant varieties for Siberia

Taking into account the specific conditions of Siberia, very early and early varieties are used for planting. Agricultural technology for growing grapes in this region has its own characteristics. Despite their high winter and frost resistance, bushes can be damaged by frost in winter. Therefore, in Siberian conditions, grapes are grown either in trenches or on high ridges, with mandatory insulation of the trunks and roots. However, such extreme conditions have a positive side: neither diseases nor pests affect the grapes. Consequently, no pesticide treatments are required and the crop grows environmentally friendly. Most of these grape varieties have very tasty berries, aromatic and beautiful, collected in large, heavy clusters. Thanks to the varietal characteristics, the vine has time to ripen and the grapes safely go into winter.

Uncovered grape varieties

Grape varieties whose main characteristic is very high frost resistance (up to -40 º C) are called non-covering or arbor varieties. Most of these varieties are immune to mildew, oidium and gray rot. The berries are inferior in size and taste to the fruits of covering (European) varieties, but this disadvantage is compensated by the ability to use bushes for shading gazebos and recreation areas. The main purpose of uncovered grape varieties is technical, for the production of wine and drinks.

Due to the intense color of the berries and high sugar content, high-quality wines are made from grapes of this variety.

The Saperavi Northern variety is technical and is used mainly in winemaking. The harvest ripening period is late, late September-early October. A distinctive feature of the variety is that ripe brushes do not fall off for 20–25 days. The berries are very juicy, high sugar content (17–20%), but small, weighing 0.8–1.2 g. The berries have a specific “isabelle” taste, which is valued when making wine. The clusters are small in size, with an average weight of one cluster of about 100 grams. Having bisexual flowers, the variety is self-pollinating. In an uncovered culture, the sleeves and vines of Saperavi Northern are able to withstand frosts down to -30 º C.

The pleasant strawberry hue in the taste of Alpha grapes and balanced acidity make it indispensable in the production of dry wines

Alpha grapes are known as one of the best in winemaking. Small fruits with a sour taste are collected in clusters of medium size and weight (up to 200 g). On tall bushes, the harvest ripens 140–145 days after flowering. The variety is self-fertile and practically undamaged by fungal diseases and pests. High frost resistance down to -40 ° C allows you to grow grapes of this variety without shelter in the form of arches and arbors for wall decoration. Even berries slightly frozen do not lose their taste and presentation.

Tallness and very good frost resistance, combined with the interesting taste of the berries, make it possible to grow these grapes both as a decoration for a gazebo and as a delicacy.

The grape variety Dvietis zila was selected in Latvia for regions with difficult weather conditions during winter. The bushes are resistant to negative temperatures down to -40 ° C, while the root system of the grapes can withstand soil freezing down to minus ten degrees. Although the berries of this grape are small, they have a very harmonious taste with an amazing strawberry aroma. Medium-sized bunches weighing up to 150 grams ripen in four months. The variety is distinguished by a yield that is quite high for an uncovered crop - 10–15 kg of fruits are obtained from one bush. The good taste of the berries provides the Dvietis zila variety with versatility in use. Thanks to the bisexual flowers, the bushes are self-pollinating and can be used for donor pollination of grapes with functionally female flowers of suitable mid-early varieties. The grapes are very little susceptible to damage by diseases and pests.

Video: review of varieties of uncovered winter-hardy grapes

Frost-resistant grape varieties in Ukraine

For cultivation in Ukraine, all frost-resistant varieties are used, which have been successfully tested for the conditions of central Russia and Belarus. The most famous grapes include Arcadia, Pearl Saba, Bako, Kievskiy early, Platovskiy, Muscat Vostorg, Agat Donskoy, Nadezhda AZOS and a number of other varieties. Most of the listed grape varieties of early and medium ripening, self-pollinating, have high yields combined with the wonderful taste of the berries. They are resistant to fungal diseases and tolerate frosts down to -25–30 ° C.

Video: grape varieties for cultivation in the Kyiv region

Technical grape varieties are in great demand among many Ukrainian gardeners: Crystal, Lydia, Isabella, Gift of Magaracha. Thanks to the fairly mild climate in most regions of Ukraine, these grapes are grown mainly in uncovered crops.

Video: uncovered Crystal grapes

The climate of the eastern regions of Ukraine in terms of weather conditions most closely matches the climate of the North Caucasus region of Russia. This is a determining factor when choosing grape varieties for cultivation in these areas. Most often, early and medium ripening varieties are cultivated here. The unstable winters of Donbass with frequent thaws and sometimes severe frosts dictate the need to use mainly covering varieties. Although non-covering varieties are also successfully grown in wall culture.

Video: review of early grape varieties in the Lugansk region

Our summer cottage plot is located in the Donetsk region. Our soils are good and fertile, but nature often shows its temper. Either in April the east wind will bring a dust storm, or in the middle of winter the snow will almost melt, and then within a day it will freeze and everything will become covered with ice. The soil on our site, although fertilized, is dominated by sand, so during severe frosts it freezes quite deeply. It is especially difficult for grapes in such conditions. If there is little snow in winter and severe frosts hit, then its root system freezes. And in case of icing, the roots simply suffocate without access to air. Our vineyard is small; there are several bushes of Odessa Souvenir, Arcadia and Agat Donskoy. Agate is our family's favorite. Easy to care for, very productive, and resistant to grape diseases. Apart from Agat, we cover all other bushes for the winter. And this grape tolerates Donetsk winters well due to its high resistance to frost. But the roots sometimes suffer from freezing, the berries become smaller, the vines develop poorly and the bushes take a long time to recover. Four years ago we decided to plant a couple more bushes of our favorite variety. In a gardening magazine I read how the famous winegrower Yu.M. Chuguev grows grapes on high ridges. And I decided to conduct an experiment with my grapes. In the spring, for planting, we dug a trench 4 m long and about 0.3–0.4 m deep. Several buckets of gravel were poured into the bottom of the trench, compost was laid on top to the level of the trench and a layer of fertile soil with complex fertilizer. Seedlings were planted in the prepared holes (they were purchased with a closed root system) and garden soil was poured to a height of approximately 20 cm. The resulting elongated mound was mulched with humus. During the summer, they cared for the bushes, as usual for young grapes. They were carefully covered for the winter, and our “new settlers” overwintered well. In general, for the first three years after planting, we grew young grapes according to the classical system, with watering, loosening, weeding and shelter for the winter. And already in the third year he thanked us with good grapes. Last fall, we left Agate in a high bed without shelter. At the beginning of March this year, we went to our site to visit our pets. Judging by the condition of the vine, the grapes overwintered well. Although the winter of 2017 started late, the first snow only fell at the end of December. And during January-February there were several thaws, followed by freezing and the formation of an ice crust on the ground. So we can say that the experiment was a success and the method of growing grapes on a high bed in our conditions has proven its effectiveness.