Grapes, Red, Seedless 'Reliance' (Live Plant)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Reliance' is a pink seedless grape cultivar developed at the University of New Hampshire by Elwyn M. Meader. It was released in 1983. It was bred for its exceptional cold hardiness and good fruit quality.
• Patent Status: 'Reliance' Grape was protected by U.S. Plant Patent PP5,174, granted on 1984-01-10 to University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, but which expired on 2002-12-27. Propagation and sale of the cultivar is no longer prohibited.
• Berry Production: Produces medium-sized, round, pink to red seedless berries with a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. The berries are juicy and have a tender skin. They are borne in medium-sized, loose clusters.
• Ripening Time: 'Reliance' is an early to mid-season ripening grape, typically ripening in **late August to early September** in many growing regions.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Reliance' is a vigorous vine with good growth habit. It requires a trellis or other support system for proper growth and fruit production.
• Flowers: Produces typical small, greenish-white grape flowers in the late spring. It has perfect flowers, although its seedlessness is a key feature.
• Hardiness: 'Reliance' is extremely cold-hardy, generally suitable for USDA Zones 4 through 8, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). This makes it a popular choice for growers in colder climates.
• Pollination: 'Reliance' 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 'Reliance' grapes.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit development (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 pink color, sweet flavor, 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: 'Reliance' exhibits good resistance to several common grape diseases, including powdery mildew and black rot. It is also tolerant of downy mildew.