Grapes Avatar

Avatar is one of the latest innovations among the selected varieties of grapes imported from abroad. Gardeners and professional growers are still mistrustful of him and are in no hurry to acquire relatively expensive seedlings. But thanks to the original shape and the exceptional taste of its berries, the variety is gradually gaining popularity in different regions. In some countries it is known under the romantic names "Drops of the Moon" and "Sweet Sapphire".

A variety of a raisin seedless grape group called Avatar was developed as a result of breeding research by the American company Grapery in Bakersfield, California. It appeared thanks to the participation of the International Fruit Genetics laboratory, which is engaged in the improvement and development of new varieties of fruit crops. The avatar was bred by crossing Beita Mouni and C22-121. The first successful results of work on a new variety were recorded in 2006.

It grows in North and South America, Africa, Europe and Asia, feels comfortable in South Korea. Occasionally found in Russia.

The original name given to this table grape is IFG Six.

The variety belongs to the medium in terms of ripening. In the conditions of its homeland (California), it fully matures by the end of summer - beginning of autumn.

In the conditions of the southern regions of Russia, it shows well its varietal qualities among specialists working with growth stimulants (gibberellic acid), in addition, the growing conditions and climate features play a role.

The berries are collected on a dense, strong ridge in a neat, not too loose, conical bunch weighing an average of 1080 g with a length of 29-31 cm and a width of 16-29 cm. During ripening, it does not require additional loosening.

The avatar is distinguished by an unusual elongated shape of berries with a characteristic dimple at the end. The color of the fruit is dense, dark blue, almost black, the skin is very dense, contains a large amount of tannin. The berries are large, with a transparent dense crispy pulp, do not contain seeds, and are intended for fresh consumption. The average length of a ripe berry in a bunch is 41-50 mm with a diameter of 18-20 mm, weight - 10 g.

The fruits are very sweet, juicy, have a delicate, refreshing, harmonious taste. Sugar accumulation - 19.4%, acidity 3.88 g / dm 3. Some argue that the unusual shape of the berries gives them an extraordinary, "cosmic" flavor.

The yield of the variety in California is average, but in Russia it depends on the region.

In the northern regions and in regions with fertile soils, a wide planting scheme is recommended with the distribution of 8-9 square meters of soil per 1 bush. The variety will be especially interesting for winegrowers with sufficient skills in working with growth stimulants.

Avatar is a grafted, re-grafted and rooted culture. From one shoot at the third or fourth node it throws out the main bunch, the second bunch is already of lower quality. It performs well on arched formation. It is recommended to use a vigorous stock.

The type of flowers in the Avatar variety is bisexual. Pollination of the bushes is natural, good, cross, does not require additional processing.

Medium pruning is preferred, but good bunches are formed with short pruning. The main thing is that the fruit shoot should be standard, 10-12 mm.

The variety does not require too frequent watering; on average, one abundant watering once a month is enough.

Additionally, Avatar should be watered before flowering and a few days before coloring the fruit. Overflowing vines is fraught with rotting roots and freezing them out in winter.

It is believed that the use of gibberellin stimulates the formation of a specific shape and color of berries. While this claim is controversial, growers continue to feed the plant with this remedy. But in general, the plant accepts well not too frequent complex feeding.

The frost resistance of the variety is low. When grown in regions with cold winters, quality shelter is required. The vine must be carefully removed from the supports, compactly laid on the ground and, having previously pressed down with a load, well covered with spruce branches or other suitable material. After the snow falls, you can additionally cover the vine with a snow cap.

The variety is moderately resistant to diseases and pests. Mandatory preventive treatments are required for powdery mildew, mildew, white rot. The plant also suffers from damage by thrips. Complex preparations or a solution of copper sulfate can be used as a treatment agent.

Avatar perfectly tolerates transportation and long-term storage in refrigerated chambers. Professionals describe it as an excellent commercial grade.