Muscadines 'Cowart' (Live Plant)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Cowart' is a muscadine grape cultivar (Vitis rotundifolia) that was released in **1968** by B.O. Fry from the University of Georgia. It is the result of a cross between 'Higgins' and 'Ga. 28' made in 1960. Historically, 'Cowart' was an important cultivar due to its combination of good berry size and quality with self-fertile flowers.
• Patent Status: 'Cowart' Muscadine is **not patented**. Information from the University of Georgia and other sources indicates that 'Cowart' was introduced in 1968 and is an unpatented variety. Therefore, there are no restrictions on its asexual reproduction, propagation, or sale based on patent law.
• Berry Production: Produces medium-sized, black or dark purple berries with excellent, sweet flavor and edible skin. The berries typically ripen in **mid-September**. It is known for producing large clusters and being a very fruitful variety.
• Ripening Time: 'Cowart' is considered an **early to mid-season** ripening muscadine, typically ready for harvest around mid-September in the southeastern United States.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Cowart' is a vigorous, heat-tolerant vine with robust growth. It is a climbing vine that can reach 6 to 10 feet in height and 15 to 20 feet in width.
• Flowers: Produces self-fertile flowers, meaning it does not require a separate pollinator to set fruit. The flowers are typical of muscadine grapes.
• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **7 through 9**. It is well-adapted to the warm climates of the southeastern United States.
• Pollination: 'Cowart' is **self-fertile** and does not require a pollinator to produce fruit. It can also act as a pollinizer for female muscadine varieties.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires **full sun** for optimal fruit production.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and can grow in sand, loam, or clay soils. It has a preferred soil pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
  • Watering: Requires regular and consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruit development.
  • Fertilizing: Benefits from appropriate fertilization in the spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
  • Pruning: Pruning is typically done during the dormant season (late winter or early spring) to manage growth and encourage fruit production.
• Uses: The berries are excellent for:
  • • Fresh eating due to their good flavor.
    • Making juice, jellies, and preserves.
    • Some winemaking, although other varieties might be preferred for this purpose.
    • Home gardens and potentially commercial production.
• Wildlife Value: The grapes are a food source for birds and other wildlife. The flowers attract pollinators.
• Ornamental Value: Can provide ornamental value as a climbing vine, especially when fruiting. Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Cowart' is reported to be disease-resistant and heat-tolerant. However, it can be susceptible to common grape pests like Japanese beetles and grape berry moths.