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Today we can distinguish a large number of grape varieties with large clusters. But not all of them are in great demand. I would like to note a variety that is loved by many agronomists. Monarch is characterized by medium-sized clusters, but at the same time very large berries. In addition, it does not require complex care to obtain a generous harvest. In this article we will look at a description of the Monarch grape variety, as well as photos and reviews of those who have already grown it on their plot.
Description of the Monarch grape variety
The Monarch variety was bred by the experienced breeder Pavlovsky. The varieties Talisman and Cardinal were taken as a basis. It is a table variety with medium-sized clusters, although it is often classified as a large grape. The weight of each bunch is about 1 kg. Grons can have a conical or cylindrical shape.
On the bush, the fruits are placed on branches that have an average density. The grapes of this variety are very large. The weight of each berry can range from 10 to 30 grams. Such large fruits can reach the size of a small plum.
Monarch is classified as a mid-early variety. The vegetative period of such grapes ranges from 120 to 140 days.Due to the high sugar content in the chemical composition, the vine can ripen quickly. The bush has a high yield and produces 7 or more kilograms of ripe berries.
Young shoots of grapes grow rapidly. The vine can mature to a third of its original size. To optimize the load on the bush, you should leave about 25-35 eyes when pruning the bush. The grape has a bisexual flower that independently carries out pollination.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Monarch variety
This species is valued for its fragrant fruits and beautiful clusters. The Monarch variety has a pleasant taste with a light nutmeg aftertaste. In addition, the following advantages of grapes can be highlighted:
- the berries can remain on the bush without spoiling or falling off;
- the taste of grapes does not depend on weather conditions and air humidity;
- the fruits are almost the same size, there is no pea effect;
- the grape bush has high disease resistance and easily tolerates bad weather;
- the plant quickly and successfully takes root when the cutting is planted, and the grafted fruit also takes root quickly;
- The grape bush is resistant to high frosts; the vine will not be damaged even at a temperature of -25°C.
These advantages allow you to harvest a fairly good harvest without much effort. But, like any other grape variety, it has some disadvantages. One of the most serious drawbacks is the variety’s tendency to shed ovaries. True, if you do not thin out the bunches, this problem can be minimized.
Experienced agronomists believe that thinning shoots before the bush has bloomed is the most important mistake in caring for the Monarch.It is better to do this at a time when the berry buds begin to form.
In addition, the Monarch variety may be susceptible to powdery mildew. This significantly affects the quality and appearance of the crop. With prolonged damage, the vine begins to die. To protect the bushes it is necessary to use special preventive drugs.
Selection and preparation of cuttings
The first step is to select suitable cuttings. Agronomists with experience can independently propagate the fruit. Otherwise, it is better to purchase a ready-made seedling. The main thing to consider is the following points:
- the seedling must have a strong root system;
- When cut, a high-quality cutting is green;
- the roots should have only whitish root branches;
- there are at least 3 buds on the shoot.
Before planting cuttings should be placed in water. You can also place the rhizome in moist soil. In this form, the grape seedling should stand until the root system grows and the green mass blooms a little.
If the cutting is to be grafted, it is first cut off and only then placed in a special solution. It can be prepared from Humate (10 drops of the substance per liter of water). In order for the sprout to be better preserved and then take root well, you can wax the upper part of the petiole. This must be done very carefully so as not to damage the young shoots. A branch of Monarch grapes is quickly dipped into liquid paraffin, and then immediately taken out and transferred to a container with cold water.
Where to plant Monarch grapes
This hybrid is a heat-loving plant. Without enough sunlight, the berries simply won't ripen on time. Also, the variety does not tolerate cold northern winds.For this reason, for planting grapes, it is better to choose areas that are located on the south side of buildings. It is not recommended to plant the plant in open areas.
These grapes prefer light, moderately moist soils. But clay soil is absolutely not suitable for growing this crop. Grapes can grow on sandy soils, but young seedlings take root on them rather poorly.
It is best to plant Monarch grapes in black soil. Groundwater in the ground should melt at a depth of about 1.5 meters. If the water level rises, drainage should be done. To do this, make a wide depression or dig a ditch.
Caring for Monarch grapes
Caring for Monarch grapes consists of the following simple steps:
- regular watering;
- mineral and organic fertilizers;
- pruning;
- shelter for the winter;
- prevention of diseases and pests.
Grape bushes need to be watered infrequently. This plant requires more moisture only during drought. If the soil where the grapes grow is dry and quickly evaporates moisture, then you may also have to water the plant more often. If there is no special need, then the bushes are watered only in two cases: before flowering and during the period when the ovaries begin to form. Next, you need to monitor the condition of the plant and soil. If necessary, additional watering of the grapes is carried out.
To retain moisture in the soil, you can mulch the soil around the bush. A variety of materials and substances are suitable for this. For example, ordinary humus will do the job perfectly. It is poured out and distributed around the bush so that the thickness of the mulch is no more than 3 cm.
Fertilizing Monarch grapes is carried out simultaneously with loosening the soil. For this purpose, special fertilizers based on potassium and phosphorus are used. They are introduced into the soil and dug up, simultaneously deepening the substance.
Grape bushes begin to be pruned at a time when they are dormant. It is also necessary to thin out the shoots. This is done after the berries are formed. Only 4 or 6 eyes should be left on each sleeve. In general, about 40 buds are left on each bush. There is no need to spare the vine when pruning. Leaving more branches than needed will simply reduce the yield of the bushes.
The monarch is highly resistant to various diseases. However, it is often affected by powdery mildew. To protect the plant from a destructive disease, it is necessary to carry out timely prevention. Bordeaux mixture is perfect for this. A 1% solution is prepared from it, and then the bushes are simply treated with the solution.
This hybrid tolerates severe frosts well. Therefore, plants need to be covered only in regions where the winter temperature drops below -25 °C. Before this, high-quality pruning of the bushes is carried out. Then they are laid on the ground and covered with hay. From above you need to cover everything with plastic film, which is firmly attached to the ground. In this form, water will not flow under the shelter and it will not be blown away by the wind.
Conclusion
The Monarch grape variety is a beautiful grape with large berries. Growing such bushes is not difficult at all.As we have seen, caring for this hybrid consists of several waterings throughout the season, fertilizing and pruning. In addition, it is recommended to prevent powdery mildew and, if necessary, cover the plant for the winter. We are sure that the description of the Monarch grape variety, photos and reviews convinced you to start growing this hybrid.
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