Grapes, Blue 'Mars' (Live Plant)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Mars' is a blue seedless grape cultivar developed at the University of Arkansas by James N. Moore. It was released in 1983. It is the result of a complex cross involving several grape varieties, including 'Arkansas 1258' (a complex seedless hybrid) and 'Himrod' (a white seedless grape). It was specifically bred for its seedlessness, disease resistance, and good fruit quality in warmer climates.
• Patent Status: 'Mars' Seedless Blue Grape was protected by U.S. Plant Patent PP5680, granted on 1986-03-04 but expired as of 2004-07-05. Since the patent expired, the cultivar can be freely propagated and sold.
• Berry Production: Produces medium-sized, round, blue-black seedless berries with a sweet, pleasant flavor, often described as having a mild labrusca or "foxy" note, and a slightly crisp texture. The berries are borne in medium to large, well-filled clusters. It is known for its good productivity and reliable yields. The seedlessness is a primary characteristic, making it desirable for fresh eating.
• Ripening Time: 'Mars' is an early to mid-season ripening seedless grape. In the United States, it typically ripens around **early August** in Arkansas, and the timing may vary slightly depending on the growing region and climate. It is generally considered to ripen around the same time as or slightly before 'Reliance'.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Mars' is a vigorous vine with good growth habit. It requires a trellis or other support system for proper growth and fruit production. It exhibits good resistance to several common grape diseases, including powdery mildew and black rot, which is a valuable trait, especially in humid climates.
• Flowers: Produces typical small, greenish-white grape flowers in the late spring. It has perfect flowers, although its seedlessness is a key feature.
• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **5 through 8**. It is considered to have good winter hardiness for a seedless grape suitable for a range of climates.
• Pollination: 'Mars' is seedless and therefore does not rely on pollination for fruit development in the typical sense. While it has perfect flowers, the ovules do not develop into hard seeds. Planting near other grape varieties for pollination will not result in seeded 'Mars' grapes.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth, fruit development, and sugar accumulation (at least 6-8 hours per day).
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil that is moderately fertile. It can adapt to a range of soil types, but good drainage is crucial. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred.
  • Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruit development. Mature vines benefit from adequate water, particularly during dry periods.
  • Fertilizing: Generally requires moderate fertilization. Soil testing can help determine specific nutrient needs. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
  • Pruning: Requires annual pruning during the dormant season to establish the fruiting wood for the upcoming year and manage vine vigor. Various training systems can be used.
• Uses: Primarily used as a fresh eating grape due to its appealing blue-black color, sweet flavor, crisp texture, and seedlessness. It is also suitable for making **juice** and **raisins**.
• Wildlife Value: Grape flowers attract some pollinators. The ripe grapes are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
• Ornamental Value: Grapevines can provide ornamental value with their foliage and fruit clusters when trained on supports.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Mars' exhibits good resistance to several common grape diseases, including powdery mildew and black rot.