Description and characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of the Tukai grape variety and cultivation

The dream of many domestic grape breeders has always been and remains the development of varieties and hybrids suitable for cultivation in the harsh climatic regions of central Russia, Siberia and the Far East. Some researchers succeeded in this to a certain extent, and as a result of their work, new forms were born with a very short growing season or high frost resistance, but the quality of their fruits left much to be desired. Few varieties for northern viticulture today can boast of high ratings for their gastronomic characteristics and appearance. One of these forms is a variety called Tukai, which has all the necessary characteristics to be recognized as a quality northern grape.

The history of the appearance of the form is quite confusing. According to some sources, it was obtained by Alexander Ivanovich Potapenko during the period of time when he worked at the Novocherkassk Research Institute of Viticulture and Winemaking. Other sources attribute the authorship to the Altai breeder - Rostislav Fedorovich Sharov from the Biysk center of Siberian viticulture. And it looks completely strange that our hero is not in the ampelographic collections of breeding institutions, but is distributed only in the areas of amateur winegrowers.

There is no such confusion regarding the question of the parental pair from which Tukai descended. By all accounts, the cross was made with the participation of the old Hungarian variety Zhemchug Saba and the Central Asian Yakdon. Both of them belong to the classic European-Asian species Vitis vinifera, thanks to which their brainchild fully meets the high standards of product quality, but at the same time has such a short growing season that it bears fruit without problems in Siberian conditions. Many winegrowers in non-traditional cultivation regions deservedly give our hero the palm in taste and aroma of the fruit among the varieties of grapes they cultivate. However, the downside of the hybrid’s noble origin is its poor resistance to frost and fungal diseases, which requires owners to make significant efforts to care for it.

Description of the grape variety Tukay

Tukai is classified as a table grape. This means that the variety has good taste and yield. An early ripening grape, the berry is most valued when fresh. In addition, gardeners are attracted by the resistance of the Tukai variety to low temperatures. To make the description of the Tukai grape variety more practical, more attention should be paid to the bush and fruits. Plant parameters are important for calculating area and choosing a location. And the description of the berries will allow the winegrower to make sure that he has chosen the correct variety for his plot.

The Tukai variety is distinguished by spreading and vigorous bushes. The height of mature grapes reaches 1.5-3.0 m. The growth force varies depending on the agricultural background of the crop.

The grape vine is completely covered with berries. Gardeners use crop rationing to produce large, sweet grapes.

The variety has medium-sized, egg-shaped leaves. The color of the foliage is bright green, the plates along the edges are solid, and slightly dissected in the middle.

The Tukay grape variety has bisexual flowers. This means that the process of pollination of grapes does not require additional measures from the gardener. The clusters of inflorescences are elongated in shape and loose in structure.

The bunches grow to a good weight - 0.8 kg on average. If a favorable agricultural background is created for the grapes, then one bunch reaches a weight of 1.5 kg. The density of Tukai brushes is average; they resemble a cylinder in shape.

The berry of the Tukai variety is usually round in shape, small in size and weighs up to 5 g. The color of the grapes depends on the degree of their ripening. The color changes from pale green to amber. The skin is dense, the flesh is juicy and sweet. The taste of the grapes contains muscat notes and slight sourness.

Tukay grapes in the photo below:

Care

The grapes will yield a good harvest if effort is made. Caring for the Tukai variety consists of applying fertilizers, systematic watering, tying, shaping the bush, and preventive measures. According to the varietal description, the crop has low resistance to oidium and mildew. But with good care, grapes always please with beautiful large bunches, as shown in the photo.

Spraying and watering

The variety needs several waterings throughout the season, taking into account changing weather conditions. Moisture-charging irrigation is carried out twice – in spring and autumn. Their goal is to moisten the soil layer as deeply as possible.

If the soil is sufficiently moistened after the snow melts, it should not be watered additionally. The water temperature is adjusted depending on the purpose of irrigation. The addition of hot water in the spring stimulates ontogenesis and ripening of the vine. If frost threatens to return, the vineyard should be watered with cold water to inhibit bud break.

Autumn watering prepares the plant for winter. Therefore, it is necessary to thoroughly water the soil adjacent to the plant. Dry soil is more susceptible to freezing than moist soil.

Irrigation of the vineyard is carried out 1-2 times a week, depending on the air temperature. It is better to add water at sunset or early in the morning. The recommended water rate is 15-20 liters per plant, adjusted for the age and degree of growth of the vine.

The main goal is to prevent both drying out and waterlogging of the soil, due to the high sensitivity of the Tukai variety to such extremes.

Top dressing

If mineral fertilizers were used during the formation of the planting pit, then there is no need to additionally feed the plant for the first 2 years.

• From the 3rd year, rotted manure must be added every spring.
• A month before flowering begins, the vineyard is supplemented with complex fertilizer.
• Nitrogen should be added at the stage of growth and green mass gain.
• With the beginning of flowering, nitrogen-containing fertilizers should be abandoned in favor of potassium ones.
• Before budding begins, the bushes can be treated with superphosphate or a stimulator for the formation of ovaries. The procedure is repeated twice every 2 weeks.

It is necessary to carry out foliar treatment of plants in cloudy, dry weather to avoid sunburn.

Trimming

Due to the abundant growth of bushes and the formation of ovaries, the Tukai variety requires corrective pruning. Overloaded plants produce small and sour berries.

Spring pruning is the main operation to establish the load of bushes with vines and healthy eyes. Weakened and damaged shoots must be removed. You can leave 40-45 fruiting buds on one bush, and no more than 7 on a separate shoot; the remaining buds should be broken off. Cut shoots are suitable for propagating the variety using green cuttings.

For regions with harsh climatic conditions, spring pruning is associated with certain difficulties. Due to the impossibility of access to the vineyard during the period when sap flow begins, it is better to prune in the fall. This is done after the harvest is completed and the leaves have partially fallen, when the root system begins to prepare for wintering.

Tying up

In the spring, after the bushes open, the tying procedure begins. The garter is performed before the fragile buds bloom. Summer tying procedures are called “green”. It is carried out when green shoots grow from the eyes of fruit vines. When the shoots reach 35-45 cm in height, it is necessary to secure them from strong winds.

Wreckage

While the vines are tender and have not consumed a lot of nutrients, it is necessary to finally determine the number of shoots and inflorescences. For this purpose, a fragment is used.

• On a replacement knot, unnecessary shoots are removed, especially if they are directed inside the bush. In this case, only 2 strong shoots are left.
• On fruit vines, if there are twins growing from 1 eye, the weaker and infertile ones are removed.

Periodically, the shoots are broken off, new shoots formed in the axils. Their leaves will subsequently shade the clusters and draw nutrients towards themselves.

Topping

Grapes should be pinched at the beginning of the flowering period. To do this, shorten the upper part of the shoots by 1-2 cm. After pinching for 15-20-15 days, the shoot is “rebuilt” and its growth stops. At this moment, nutrients are fully supplied to the inflorescences. The process of flowers opening and excess ovaries shedding occurs.

Pinching is carried out on all strong shoots, and its timeliness increases the yield by 10-30%. Pinching also improves the formation of fruit buds and increases their frost resistance.

Optimal conditions

The optimal growing conditions for Tukay grapes are to maintain a normal level of soil moisture. Excess, as well as lack of water, negatively affects productivity.

The Tukai grape (the description of the variety and photos will help you better understand its characteristics) feels great in the climatic conditions of the middle zone. However, cultivation in hot climates is difficult. With a stable temperature background above 35℃, vegetation processes slow down.

High levels of frost resistance allow the variety to be cultivated in the conditions of Siberia and the Urals. The ability of the root system to survive frosts down to -25℃ without shelter and more severe winters with the help of sheltering measures makes the variety attractive for cultivation in areas of risky farming.

Features of planting and growing grapes

In order to get all the benefits of grapes, you need to plant them correctly and properly care for the plant throughout the summer season.

Landing dates

Grapes are planted in spring and autumn. It is not possible in winter, because the fruit may not germinate due to the cold.

It is better to plant a plant in spring at the end of April or at the beginning of May, when the weather is already warm outside. The grapes will take root before the cold weather.

In autumn, it is necessary to plant before the onset of frost, that is, from early September to October. The plant must be covered for the winter. In spring, Tukai will already be actively growing.

Site selection and soil preparation

Tukay tolerates shade, but grows best in sunlit areas. Does not tolerate drafts well. In this regard, the best place for planting will be the southern part of the fence or building.

Grapes are less demanding on soil. Grows on sandy and loamy soils.

Attention! There is no need to plant in wetlands; Tukai’s roots go deep, so groundwater will only ruin the development of the plant.

How to choose the right seedling

When buying a Tukai seedling, first of all, you need to pay attention to the condition of the trunk, roots and shoots. The roots of the seedling must be flexible and undamaged. When cut, the roots should be light in color.

Planting process step by step

Tukai is planted either individually or in rows. The plant needs support. Before planting, plant cuttings are soaked in water for a couple of days to speed up the appearance of roots. Planting process:

1. The cuttings are placed to a depth of 40-50 cm in holes or trenches, which must be fertilized before planting.
2. Lower the seedling to this depth so that two eyes are located below ground level.
3. The bottom of the trench or hole should be prepared. Sticks and dry branches are placed at the bottom. Cover with a mixture of soil, sand and organic fertilizer.
4. The cuttings are mulched and watered.
5. Tie up the cuttings and cut off a few leaves.

Features of cultivation

Despite the fact that the Tukai variety has many advantages, it will not be possible to harvest a good grape harvest without proper agricultural work.

Landing dates

Tukai grapes can be planted both in spring and autumn. This should not be done during the winter months, as the cold will prevent the seedling from taking root.

Spring planting should begin at the end of April - beginning of May before the buds swell. The earth needs to warm up. Before winter, the plant will have time to take root and gain strength.

In autumn, grapes can be planted from September to mid-October, until the first frost occurs. For the winter, the plant must be carefully covered. In spring, the Tukai bush will begin to actively develop and grow.

Advice! In the northern regions, it is better to plant grapes in the spring.

Site selection

This grape variety prefers sunny places protected from northern winds. It is recommended to plant it along a fence or building on the south side.

Tukai is not picky about soil composition, but does not like overly moist, swampy and saline areas. The bushes grow well on sandy, limestone and loamy soils.

The root system of grapes grows strongly and goes deep into the soil, so the close location of groundwater can harm the plant.

Pit preparation

In autumn, it is recommended to dig up the area, remove weeds and roots. A couple of weeks before planting, you need to dig a hole 85-90 cm deep. Pour a bucket of black soil with clay into its bottom. At this stage, you can install an irrigation pipe with a diameter of 6 cm. The grapes will be irrigated through it.

Then lay out a drainage layer of dry branches and gravel. Cover it with humus mixed with black soil and sand in equal proportions. You can also add a little ash, superphosphate and potassium salt to this soil mixture. The last level should occupy a third of the recess.

Landing rules

Tukai grape bushes can be planted in rows or individually on a strong support. The day before planting, the roots of the seedling should be soaked in water or a growth stimulant solution.

Rules for planting grapes:

1. Water the prepared planting hole generously with water.
2. Lower the seedling into the hole so that its two eyes are below ground level.
3. Spread the roots and cover with soil in a layer of 25-35 cm.
4. Water and mulch the vineyard with straw, branches or sawdust.
5. Tie the planted cuttings and cut them into 2-3 leaves.

If the Tukai planting area is characterized by close groundwater, then you need to choose a high bed for it. A trench should be dug around the grape bush to drain water.

What are grapes characterized by?

The strengths of the variety are high yields and their stability. The plant makes it possible to obtain tasty fruits in a short time that can be stored for a long time.

Productivity

16-20 kg are removed from one bush. The first harvest is harvested in the 2-3rd year.

Ripening time

Tukai has one of the shortest harvest times. Berries can be harvested 90-100 days after the start of flowering. In cold regions, full ripening is facilitated by the quality of the plant's winter hardiness. The arrival of the first frost is not a critical factor for the plant.

Positive and negative properties of the variety

Many gardeners talk about the unpretentiousness of cultivation, and even novice gardeners achieve good yields. An undoubted advantage is the winter hardiness of the plant. The bunches are able to stay on the vine for a long time without losing their external and taste qualities. The benefits of Tukay grapes include:

• stability of high yields;
• unpretentiousness;
• formation of flowers of both sexes;
• ability to withstand difficult transportation conditions;
• versatility of use.

Pereskia: 140 photos of the plant and tips for caring for it.
Features of watering and maintenance at home The unpretentiousness of the plant to the soil expands the possibilities for creating plantings. The disadvantage is considered to be insufficient resistance to mildew and oidium. When the temperature rises to +35 C, the plant slows down and the yield decreases.

Agrotechnical features

For the rapid growth of Tukay and obtaining high yields from it, the winegrower must:

• Choose a site for planting that is sufficiently provided with sun, heat, moisture and mineral nutrition;
• provide vigorous bushes with sufficient feeding area - at least 4.5-5 square meters;
• provide reliable shelter for plants for the winter, for which, from the first years of life, begin to form them according to standard-free, squat patterns;
• carefully normalize fruit-bearing grape bushes, loading them in the spring with no more than 45 buds, promptly cutting off fruitless shoots and thinning out excess clusters;
• take seriously the protection of the vineyard from mildew and oidium using multiple complex treatments with fungicides according to protocols for the protection of varieties susceptible to pathogens.

Main characteristics

Ripening period

The growing season of the “tukai” variety is 90 – 95 days. This allows us to classify it as an ultra-early grape variety. Harvesting most often occurs at the end of July - beginning of August. Also, super early varieties include “super extra”, “rumba”, “Veles” and several other good white and pink varieties.

Bush

The “tukaya” bush is vigorous and spreading. It can reach 1.5 – 3 m in height. Therefore, the winegrower should remember about regular pruning and thinning of the plant. You will also have to take care of a powerful support.

The ovoid, medium-sized leaves have a rich green color and solid edges.

The flowers are bisexual: this allows the plant to safely pollinate itself.

bunches

The clusters of “tukai” are cylindrical in shape and can “grow” wings. The weight of the hand ranges from 0.7 to 1 kg, and under favorable conditions and proper care it can reach 1.5 kg. The structure of the bunches is medium-dense.

Berries

Each berry is round in shape and light green in color, which gradually acquires an amber tint as it ripens. Weight - 3 - 5 g. The pulp is dense and juicy, the skin is soft, almost unnoticeable when chewing. Sugar level is from 17 to 19% with an acidity of 7 – 9 g/l.

Taste

The fruits of the Tukai variety have a harmonious taste with very noticeable nutmeg notes and an amazing aroma.

Description and characteristics, what it looks like

The main characteristics of this grape include the following properties:

• Fast ripening and high yield. This property is inherited from Yakdon.
• Frost tolerance. This property is inherited from Pearl Saba.
• Tukai is vigorous. Each vine ripens many berries.
• The seedlings are taking root well.

Tukai flowers are bisexual, so they do not require special pollination. Only heavy rain can disrupt the pollination process, but this depends only on climatic conditions. The leaves are green, small in size and slightly dissected.

This is what grapes look like

The grape bunches are large. The weight of the brush is 600 - 750 grams, but this is not the limit. In the description of Tukay grapes, it should be said that in comfortable conditions the weight of a bunch of Tukay reaches one kilogram, and one berry from 2 to 4 grams.

Depending on the place in which the plant grows, the color of the berries varies. In poorly sunny areas the color is light green, while in highly lit areas the berries grow with an amber tint.

Additional Information! The grape is sweet with a muscat aroma. The amount of sugar in it is 16-18%. With proper care, one bush yields from 15 to 20 kilograms.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages include:

• Fast maturation. The harvest in the southern regions appears in July, and in the rest in August.
• Can be transported over long distances because the grapes do not crumble or get damaged.
• Can be stored for a long time without loss of quality.
• Frost resistance, which allows you to grow grapes in various parts of the country.

The disadvantages of Tukai include susceptibility to powdery mildew. Also, in regions with high humidity, the plant is poorly pollinated.

Berries and grape bushes

Growing areas and features

Ripens early. In the southern regions of Russia, the plant ripens in 85 - 100 days. It may take longer to grow in the Moscow region.

In other regions, grapes are also grown and established. In the Urals or Siberia, the growing season lasts longer, 120-135 days.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• High yields.
• Early ripening.
• Ability to be stored for a long time and successfully transported.
• Frost resistance (-25C).
• Easy to care for.
• Pleasant sweet and sour taste with notes of nutmeg.

Flaws:

• The need for systematic pruning of the bush to avoid losses in yield.
• Warming for winter in northern latitudes.
• Reduced yield in stable dry weather (+35C).

Origin

The Tukai grape variety was bred by breeders of the Research Institute named after. Ya. I. Potapenko in Novocherkassk. The variety was obtained by crossing two completely different grape varieties - Pearl Saba and Yakdona.

Tukay adopted from his predecessors such qualities as frost resistance, early ripening and high yield. This allows it to be planted not only in the southern parts of Russia, but also in the Central, Ural, Siberian and Northwestern regions of the country.

History of selection and region of breeding

“Tukai” was bred by breeders of the famous VNIIViV named after Ya. I. Potapenko , located in the city of Novocherkassk and which gave the world many popular grape varieties.

The parents of “Tukay” are the Central Asian variety “Yakdona” and the Hungarian ancient variety Zhemchug Saba , from which the new variety adopted frost resistance and early ripening.

Such varieties as Super Extra, Beauty of the North, and Isabella can also boast excellent frost resistance.

These qualities make it possible to successfully grow “Tukai” not only in the south of Russia, but also in the North-Western and Central parts of the country, as well as in the Urals and Siberia.

Diseases

The variety is resistant to gray rot. The weak point of the plant is its susceptibility to mildew and oidium.

Mildew

Mildew is one of the most common grape diseases. When infected, an ashy coating appears on the lower part of the leaf blades. Then it turns brown, the leaves begin to dry out and fall off. For prevention, the following measures are taken:

• cover the trunk area with mulch;
• apply nitrogen fertilizers without overusing fertilizing;
• thin out and trim bushes;
• periodically spray ash under the bushes.

If diseased shoots are found, they should be removed and liquidated.

Oidium

When infected, an ashen-colored coating forms on the leaves. An unpleasant odor begins to emanate from the plant, reminiscent of rotting rotten fish. The inflorescences begin to dry out, and the berries suffer from cracking. To combat the disease, spray with a solution of vitriol at a concentration of 3%.

Other

The variety is resistant to most types of grape diseases, with the exception of mildew and oidium. It can be affected by gray rot due to excessive moisture, high humidity or excessive thickening of plantings.

Timely pruning and protecting berries from wasps, ants, aphids and birds will help prevent diseases.

Frost resistance

The selection characteristics of the grapes indicate the variety’s ability to withstand temperatures down to -25 C.

Where can I grow

Excellent winter hardiness qualities make it possible to grow Tukai not only in the south of Russia. The plant's unpretentiousness and ability to survive at low temperatures make it possible to form grape plantings in the central part of the country and in the north-west. Good results are obtained in Siberia, the Urals and the Altai Territory.

The best varieties to grow

The varieties recommended for Kuban were first included in the register in the 40s of the 20th century. The list that is current today was completely compiled in 1965. Breeders are actively developing new varieties and hybrids, which, if they perform well, are also included in this list.

Planting uncovered grapes in Kuban, choosing a variety:

• Chasselas is an early variety characterized by medium vine vigor. The berries are round in shape, greenish-yellow in color with a low concentration of sugars in the composition. The leaves are heart-shaped, dissected, and have denticles along the edges. Advantages of the variety: bisexual flowers, the average ripening of annual shoots sometimes reaches 90%. Even beginners practice breeding.
• Valiant. A representative of early ripening varieties, able to withstand severe frosts (down to -46°C). The clusters are not too large, but dense. Dark blue berries are suitable for fresh consumption. But most often they are used to make juice or wine.
• Rkatsiteli is a classic Caucasian grape variety characterized by medium-early ripening. The clusters are large or medium sized, dense. The berries have a thin but durable skin of a light color, and on the sunny side they have a characteristic blush. Advantages: frost resistance indicators are above average, disease resistance is good, the bunches are intended for long-term storage for a long time.
• White Muscat is one of the oldest and most popular grape varieties. The clusters have an elongated conical shape, the color of the berries is yellowish-pink. The leaves are medium in size. Disadvantages: shows weak resistance to viral and fungal diseases. Advantages: high concentration of sugars.
• Chardonnay is a mid-early variety. Leaves are medium sized. The berries are light green in color. Frost resistance indicators are average. After frosts it is able to recover.

Technical varieties that have gained particular popularity:

• Portugieser is an early-ripening grape variety characterized by above-average vine vigor. The berries are dark blue in color. The clusters are quite dense and large. The leaves are round, slightly dissected. Advantages of the variety: excellent ripening of shoots, good frost resistance, universal purpose of fruits, high resistance to common diseases, practically no need to care for the bushes.
• Amur breakthrough. A medium-ripening variety with frost resistance down to -40°C. Practically resistant to disease and rot. Easily repels attacks from harmful insects. The dark crimson berries are great for making wine and juices.
• Crystal. This variety tolerates winter frosts down to -29°C, which makes it an excellent choice. The grapes are resistant to mildew and gray rot. White or dark green berries ripen on the vine, which can be used to make wine.
• Kay Gray. Early ripening grapes that can withstand temperatures down to -42°C. It is characterized by small berries, in the taste of which notes of Isabella are easily detected. This variety is resistant to mildew, black and gray rot, which makes it extremely popular among local winegrowers. The berries are used to produce dry wine.

Thanks to favorable environmental conditions and fertile soils, more than 30 grape varieties grow successfully in the Krasnodar region. Growing grapes in Kuban is not considered difficult. The crop is grown on an industrial scale and privately. If you plant different varieties of crops at your summer cottage, then if you follow preventive measures and rules of agricultural technology, you can reap a decent harvest every year.

Variety care

Medium or short pruning is used, for 7 eyes; it is better to leave 40-45 buds per bush. Tukai requires rationing because it ties too many tassels. If you leave them all, the berries will be crushed and ripening will be delayed. Therefore, excess shoots are broken off and the clusters are plucked out.

Frost resistance is quite high, the buds can withstand frosts of -25ºС. For winter shelter, spruce branches, cardboard, film and other materials are used. The variety cannot boast of high resistance to oidium and mildew; it requires preventive treatments and periodic inspections.

If the weather is rainy during flowering, pollination may be poor and the ovaries may fall off. The shedding of ovaries in unfavorable years is considered by winegrowers to be the biggest drawback of the described form.

Reproduction

Nurseries most often offer Tukai for sale in grafted form, on phylloxera-resistant Riparia rootstock on Rupestris. Cuttings take root easily, so you can plant it with your own rooted seedlings. The variety adapts well to any soil, except overly wet and saline soils. The brighter and warmer the place intended for the vineyard, the better the vines will grow and the harvest will ripen.

Agrotechnical measures largely depend on where the grapes are grown. If in difficult continental conditions with long cold winters, short summers and strong winds, then it is most effective to use the Siberian system.

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According to the recommendations, Tukai in the northern regions is initially planted deep. This greatly simplifies the shelter, saving materials, effort and time. In winter, pre-planted and treated vines are covered.

It is necessary to carry out snow retention, because under the blanket of snow the buds will be reliably protected from frost. Trimming in two stages. After harvesting, the weak parts of the plant are removed so that the main shoots have time to ripen. The main pruning is carried out later, before the shelter.

How to care for the Tukai variety

Caring for the crop requires some attention. This is not a weed that will grow under any conditions.

Watering and fertilizing

The plant needs year-round watering. The roots of grapes go to great depths in autumn and spring, so at this time the plant is watered abundantly. After a snowy winter, the soil should be moistened, then in the spring you can skip watering. But in the fall, watering is required because dry soil freezes quickly. This leads to the death of the plant.

During the summer season, you need to water 3 to 4 times a month. Definitely in the evening. An individual plant bush requires up to 15 liters of water. The main thing is not to dry out the soil. But at the same time, the grapes should not be over-watered, because this will slow down their growth.

In the first season after planting, the plants do not need to be fertilized, since the soil still contains many nutrients that were added during planting. In spring, grapes are fed with manure.

Important! Before flowering, fertilize with a mineral solution. They mainly use potassium and phosphorus, since these minerals have a positive effect on plant growth.

Bush formation and pruning

In the spring they begin to prune the grapes. Remove weak shoots. They leave 35-40 buds on one bush, and the entire shoot gets from 5 to 8 eyes.

If the grapes are large, then fewer eyes should be left. Pruning is done in order not to overload the shoots. Because if you don’t remove the extra buds, the grapes will be small and unsweetened. The shoots that remain must be tied up.

If frosts are expected in the spring, there is no need to immediately remove the shelters that were used in winter. It is enough to open the grape bush a little.

In the north, it is best to prune in the fall, immediately after the first harvest, since there is a chance that the process of sap flow will begin in the spring.

Garter

Traditionally, grapes are tied twice - in spring and summer. In spring, the main thing is to do the garter before the buds open, as they are fragile. If you don't tie it up, you can lose most of the fruit. Before gartering, you need to remove broken and damaged shoots. Old shoots are also removed from the bush.

Reproduction of the variety, how and when to do it

The plant can be propagated by cuttings. This is the most popular method. Tukay’s cuttings take root well, so this method of propagation suits him.

It must be propagated either in spring or at the very beginning of summer. This is the time to remove broken or old shoots from grapes. The best of the selected shoots are used for cuttings.

The cutting process can be divided into the following steps:

1. Selected shoots are placed in a bucket, they must be sprayed and stored in the basement for one night.
2. In the morning you need to take the shoots and cut them into cuttings.
3. The resulting cutting must be soaked in water and planted in a box with sand.
4. Spray the cuttings and cover with a plastic bag.
5. For two weeks, spray the cuttings 5 ​​times a day with warm water - 20-25 degrees.
6. After 2 weeks, roots appear, after which it is necessary to spray several times a day.

Reviews

I have never seen bunches of 800-1200g, at best 300-500g, maybe I was unlucky with pollination, maybe because it was never standardized, although the potential is visible. But the taste is one of my favorites, very good nutmeg. Dmitriy

Pollination is always not very good for me, it peas a little. The Aleshenkin variety is pollinated much worse. It definitely needs to be normalized. Tukay is a variety for itself. The taste is wonderful: fine nutmeg, thin skin, very juicy. Mildew requires a minimum of 4 sprays. Good for northern regions. Tatiana, Belgorod

“Tukay” is a table grape variety with an extremely early ripening period. It has excellent taste and attractive appearance. This variety is a true champion for storage and transportation. Berries can be safely transported over long distances, and the fruits can be successfully stored until April next year.

Pest control and disease prevention

Tukai must be protected from diseases in a timely manner. Grapes are susceptible to Oidium and Mildew diseases.

Oidium is a disease that can take root in any part of the plant bush in order to feed on sap. The berries become covered with a grayish coating, after which they dry out and die.

Mildew is a fungus that grows in wet weather. Round yellowish spots appear on the leaves of the grapes, under which a white fluff forms.

Attention! If these signs appear, then the plant is sick. It is necessary to take measures so that it does not die.

Basic measures to prevent the disease:

• When the plant begins to bloom, it is necessary to spray it with copper sulfate.
• To prevent the plant from getting sick with oidium, you need to treat the grapes with preparations that contain sulfur. This procedure should take place in warm weather, at least 20 degrees Celsius.
• The soil in which the plant is planted must be mulched with ash. To protect against mildew, ventilation, which is achieved through timely thinning of bushes, helps.

It is also necessary to protect grapes from pests, most often birds. To scare them away, use: brightly colored tapes, metal mesh, rattles. If wasps appear near the grapes, then you need to set a variety of sweet traps.

These grapes do not need special attention. Anyone new to gardening can handle planting and caring for it. The main thing is to decide on the place where to plant the plant. In order for the fruits to turn out tasty and sweet, they need warmth and sun.

Fruit and soil care

Caring for Amethyst grapes is:

• watering;
• fertilization;
• weeding;
• loosening;
• mulching;
• garter;
• pruning;
• hiding.

Watering

This variety does not like abundant watering, so moderation must be observed. The bush is watered twice a week with 1–2 liters if it is hot outside. Water needs to be poured at the root. Drainage channels must be installed near the bushes to drain excess water. If you water your grapes for 7 days before harvest, they will crack.

Top dressing

The variety does not particularly need fertilizers; fertilizing with potassium and phosphorus is mandatory after wintering and before it, as well as during planting.

Soil care

The soil needs to be looked after in spring, summer and autumn. If the grapes were covered for the winter, then after removing the cover and garter between the rows, it is necessary to loosen the soil, digging to a depth of about 0.2 m. If the bush has not yet produced fruit, then loosen the soil within a radius of 0.5 m around it. In summer, loosening is carried out 2-3 days after watering, in autumn - after wrapping the vine.

Did you know? Finely chopped grape shoots after pruning and berry cake can be used for fertilizer - for this they are scattered between the rows and sprinkled with soil, where they rot after 2 years.

Tying up shoots

Young annual shoots must be tied up so that they are not damaged by the wind. This variety grows strongly, so supports are installed immediately after planting. To do this, pegs are hammered nearby and the plants are tied to them. You can use wooden, iron or reinforced concrete supports. Wood is less durable, but causes fewer problems with disposal (you can simply burn it). It is better to use hardwood. If the vineyard is large, planks with drilled holes are attached to the top of the post perpendicular to it, through which wire is threaded in several rows and secured between two posts.

You will be interested in learning how to make a trellis for grapes with your own hands.

Trimming

To reduce sap loss, the main pruning of Amethyst is best done in the fall. Medium pruning is needed, usually leaving 4-6 eyes on the fruiting vine.

The following are subject to pruning:

• shoots damaged by frost (in spring);
• stepsons (in spring);
• lateral 15-centimeter shoots up to 3–4 cm (in autumn).

Important! The main rule of pruning is that young shoots should not interfere with each other’s growth and cast a shadow on each other.

Cold protection

Mature grapes can do without shelter if they are gradually accustomed to the cold. To do this, the annual vine is carefully wrapped for the winter, like other heat-loving varieties. The next year, wrapping is carried out a little later and the cover is removed a few days earlier than other varieties. If the damage from the cold is insignificant, cover later in the 3rd year and remove the cover much earlier. If there is no visible damage, the 4-year-old vine can be left without shelter. If grapes are planted in trenches, then for the winter they are removed from their supports, placed in a recess, and covered with earth.

For shelter you can use:

• plastic bucket;
• wooden tub;
• large cut water bottle;
• agrofibre;
• film.

Learn about ways to cover grapes for the winter.

Comparison with analogues

“Tukay” is one of the earliest varieties that has attractive characteristics for planting on your site. Let's compare it with its main competitors.

Description of grapes

Hybrid Tukay is a table variety that produces an early harvest and can withstand low temperatures. It has excellent taste, good presentation and is intended for fresh consumption.

Bushes and bunches

Tukay grape bushes are vigorous and spreading. They can reach from 1.5 to 3 m in height. A large number of berries ripen on the vine, almost along its entire length. The leaves are medium in size, ovoid in shape, bright green in color, with entire edges and a slightly dissected middle. In appearance they are similar to the leaves of the Pearl Saba grape.

A distinctive feature of the Tukai variety is its bisexual flowers. This simplifies the fertilization procedure. But in unfavorable weather conditions the process can become more complicated. The flowering clusters of the plant are loose and elongated.

The grape clusters are large, medium density and cylindrical in shape. On average, their weight is 0.7-0.8 kg, but under favorable conditions they can reach 1.5 kg.

Berries

The grape berries are round, small, weighing from 3 to 5 g. Depending on the degree of ripening, they can change color from light green to amber. Under the thick skin there is sweet and juicy pulp with a slight sourness. A distinctive feature of the fruit is the presence of a hint of nutmeg and a pleasant aroma. The sugar content in grapes is 18%, and the acid content is 6-7 g/l.

The fruits of Tukay can hang on the vine for a long time, as they are located on strong petioles. They do not crack or crumble. During transportation, the grapes are not damaged and retain their taste and external qualities.

Harvest and winemaking

Due to the early ripening period, the first bunches of grapes in warm regions are harvested at the end of July. The berries are characterized by their ability to be stored for a long time at temperatures from +1 C to +8 C. In terms of tasting qualities, the grapes were given a score of 9 points. The variety belongs to the table dessert species, but is often used for making wine.

Peculiarities

Tukay grapes, the description of the variety and photos of which clearly show both positive and negative qualities, have undeniable advantages over other varieties:

• high yield volume;
• ultra-early fruit ripening;
• high ability for long-term storage and transportability;
• unpretentiousness to growing conditions;
• no exotic care requirements;
• exquisite nutmeg sweet and sour taste.

Disadvantages include:

• the need for regular pruning of shoots to avoid overload;
• creating shelters for the winter when growing in harsh climates;
• reduction in the expected yield level when dry, hot weather sets in.

The culture has high frost resistance and very early fruiting. In the conditions of the northern regions, such qualities are especially attractive.

The ability of the Tukay variety for long-term storage and good transport tolerance without loss of commercial qualities is convenient for the commercial sale of grapes.

And the absence of special requirements for care and growing conditions (as described by gardeners) allows even beginning winegrowers to obtain a rich harvest of berries that are balanced in taste and have a muscat aroma. Beautiful clusters growing in Siberia, as seen in the photo, bring true pleasure to lovers of this culture.