Grapes, Blue, Seeded, 'Sunbelt' (Live Plant)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Sunbelt' is a blue, seeded juice grape cultivar developed at the University of Arkansas by James N. Moore. It originated from open-pollinated seeds of 'Concord' collected in 1968 and was released in 1993. It was selected for its ability to ripen evenly under hot conditions, unlike 'Concord' which can exhibit uneven ripening in such climates.
• Patent Status: 'Sunbelt' Seeded Grape was protected by U.S. Plant Patent PP8511, granted on December 21, 1993. The patent expired on September 25, 2012. After the patent expires, the cultivar can be freely propagated and sold.
• Berry Production: Produces large, round, blue-black seeded berries with a strong, typical *Vitis labrusca* flavor, very similar to 'Concord'. The juice has a soluble solids concentration averaging 16.4%, with a lower pH and higher acidity than 'Concord' at equal soluble solids. Clusters are typically small, well-filled, and compact, resembling 'Concord' clusters. Yields are generally low to moderate for an eastern U.S. table grape cultivar, around 4 to 5 tons per acre in research trials.
• Ripening Time: 'Sunbelt' is a late-season ripening grape, similar to 'Concord', typically around mid to late August in Arkansas (approximately August 17th at Clarksville, Arkansas). A significant attribute is its even ripening within the cluster, even under hot conditions.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Sunbelt' vines are vigorous with a growth habit and leaf and cane characteristics similar to 'Concord'. Canes mature their wood early and enter winter in a well-hardened condition. The vine displays good cold hardiness and moderate vigor.
• Flowers: Blooms around mid-May. Flowers are typical grapevine flowers. Pollen is normal, abundant, and fertile. It is self-pollinating.
• Hardiness: Hardy, similar to 'Concord', and generally suitable for USDA Zones 6 through 10, with some sources suggesting it may be hardy down to Zone 5. It has demonstrated good cold hardiness in Arkansas and Kansas, showing no injury at -24°C (-11°F). Late bud break and bloom help avoid spring freeze damage.
• Pollination: 'Sunbelt' is self-fertile and does not require another variety for pollination.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. Adaptable to differing soil and climatic conditions.
  • Watering: Requires adequate moisture, especially during the growing season.
  • Fertilizing: Follow recommendations for 'Concord' grapes.
  • Pruning: Systems recommended for 'Concord' likely would be applicable to 'Sunbelt' due to the similarity of vigor and growth habit.
• Uses: Primarily a juice grape, excellent for:
  • Juice production.
  • Jams and jellies.
  • Wine making (sweet house wine).
  • Can be eaten fresh, similar to 'Concord'.
• Wildlife Value: Grapevines can provide some habitat and food for wildlife. Flowers attract pollinators.
• Ornamental Value: Can be grown on arbors and trellises, providing visual interest.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: Displays moderate to high resistance to common fungal diseases, including moderate resistance to black rot and anthracnose, and higher resistance to powdery and downy mildews. Disease control programs used for 'Concord' are applicable.