Vitis 'Reliance' Red Seedless Grape

Vitis 'Reliance' Red Seedless Grape is a woody deciduous grapevine that's ornamental as well as productive, prized for fruit and foliage. The vine blooms in tiny yellowish-green flowers in mid to late spring followed by large, drooping clusters of medium-sized round red fruit, harvestable early season, from early summer to early fall. The seedless grapes may have poor color some years and may crack in wet seasons, but they are firm with tender skin and flesh that has a melting texture and a sweet labrusca flavor. They are ideal for fresh eating, for juicing, or for making jams, jellies, and raisins.

Vitis 'Reliance' Red Seedless Grape is a vigorous, climbing vine with cold hardiness that ranks among the highest of the seedless varieties. The first year, the grapevine should be allowed to run freely, but by the second or third year, it should be posted or staked after a heavy pruning, leaving only 2 or 3 buds on the strongest stem. As it grows, keep only the most vigorous sprout to form the main stem. Regular spraying and pruning will maximize fruit production. Grapevines can be cultivated on a wire trellis, espaliered on a courtyard wall, or trained on an arbor, pergola, or fence for a striking garden feature.

Grapevines grow best in sunny locations with deep, medium moist, well-draining soil but are adaptable to a wide range of soils and do especially well in clays and loams that have been improved with organic matter, if they have good drainage. Site location should be sheltered from winter winds. Shallow cultivation and mulch are beneficial. The vine is self-fertile and will bear fruit without any pollen from other varieties.

'Reliance' is from the University of Arkansas.

Grapes ship as 1-year-old plants.