Grapes, White 'Niagara' (Live Plant)

These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.

Key Characteristics of Niagara Grapes:

• Origin: The 'Niagara' grape is a cultivar of the North American grape species Vitis labrusca. It was created in 1868 in Niagara County, New York by Claudius L. Hoag and Benjamin W. Clark. It is the result of a cross between the 'Concord' grape and the 'Cassady' grape (a white variety). It was first sold commercially in 1882.
• Patent Status: 'Niagara' was developed and released in the late 19th century, prior to the era of widespread plant patenting. Therefore, 'Niagara' grapes are not patented and are considered a public domain variety. They can be freely propagated and distributed.
• Berry Production: Produces large, round to oval-shaped berries with a pale greenish-white skin that may develop a slight yellowish hue when fully ripe. The berries have a slip-skin, meaning the skin is easily separated from the juicy, translucent green flesh. 'Niagara' grapes are known for their sweet and pleasant "foxy" aroma and flavor, which is characteristic of Vitis labrusca varieties. They typically grow in large, well-filled clusters and are considered a productive cultivar. The berries contain seeds. A pink-skinned variant, 'Pink Niagara' (Niágara Rosada), also exists.
• Ripening Time: 'Niagara' grapes are a mid-season ripening variety, typically maturing in late summer to early fall (late August to September in many regions).
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Niagara' is a vigorous, fast-growing deciduous grapevine that can reach 15-20 feet in length unless pruned. It has large, three-lobed green leaves and requires sturdy support such as a trellis, arbor, or fence for its twining stems.
• Flowers: Grapevines produce small, greenish-white, fragrant flowers borne in clusters in mid to late spring. 'Niagara' is self-pollinating and will set fruit without the need for another grape variety.
• Hardiness: 'Niagara' grapes are generally hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9. They prefer a location sheltered from harsh winter winds and frost pockets.
• Pollination: 'Niagara' is self-fertile and will produce fruit without the need for cross-pollination. However, planting multiple vines can still benefit overall production.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but is adaptable to a range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils. Good drainage is essential to prevent root problems. The soil pH can range from slightly acidic to alkaline.
  • Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during establishment and fruit development. Consistent moisture supports healthy vine growth and berry quality.
  • Pruning: Requires annual pruning during the dormant season to establish the vine's structure and manage fruit production. Proper pruning is essential for maintaining yield and fruit quality.
• Uses: 'Niagara' grapes are versatile and used for:
  • Fresh eating as a table grape.
  • Making white grape juice, for which it is a leading variety in the United States.
  • Producing sweet white wines and sparkling wines, although it is sometimes considered less than optimum for high-quality wine due to its "foxy" character and lower acidity. Blending with higher-acid grapes is often recommended for winemaking.
  • Making jams, jellies, and preserves.
• Wildlife Value: Grapevines provide cover for wildlife, and the fruit is a food source for birds and other animals.
• Ornamental Value: Grapevines can be quite ornamental, especially when trained on arbors, pergolas, or fences, providing a handsome leafy cover.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Niagara' can be susceptible to common grape diseases such as powdery mildew and Botrytis. Good air circulation and appropriate vineyard management practices are important for disease control.