Thomcord

Thomcord is a table grape variety that is a cross between the popular Thompson Seedless and Concord grapes. It was developed by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the University of Arkansas. The Thomcord grape was released to the public in 2003.

History

The Thompson Seedless grape, also known as Sultanina, is one of the oldest and most popular grape varieties in the world. The Concord grape, developed by Ephraim Wales Bull in the 19th century, is a staple of the American grape industry, known for its distinctive flavor. The Thomcord grape was developed as a part of a grape breeding program by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and the University of Arkansas. The aim was to combine the seedless nature of the Thompson with the rich flavor of the Concord.

Characteristics

Thomcord grapes are medium-sized, oval-shaped, and have a blue-black color. They have a thin skin that is easy to eat, and a juicy pulp. The grapes are seedless, or have very small seeds that are generally not noticeable when eating. The flavor is a blend of the Thompson Seedless and Concord, with the distinctive "foxy" flavor of the Concord being prominent.

Cultivation

Thomcord grapes are suitable for cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 5-8. They are vigorous growers and require a long growing season to reach peak flavor. The grapes are typically harvested in late summer to early fall.

Uses

Thomcord grapes are primarily used as table grapes, eaten fresh. They can also be used in making wine, jelly, and juice. The grapes have a high natural sugar content, making them suitable for desserts and sweet dishes.

See also

• List of grape varieties
• Viticulture
• Table grape