Winegrape Cultivar Research at OSU South Centers
Proposed by: Dr.Gary Y.Gao
Presenter: Gao, G. Y., Extension Specialist And Associate Professor, Ohio State University South Centers, Piketon, OH 45661
Winegrapes are gaining popularity in Ohio. The wine and winegrape industry represented an economic impact of $582.8 million based on a survey conducted in 2008. In 2012, there are 160 wineries in Ohio. Due to this rapid increase in the number of wineries, there is a major shortage of Ohio-grown winegrapes. A winegrape cultivar evaluation trial was established in 2008 at OSU South Centers in Piketon, Ohio. Both Vinifera (European/French)and French-American hybrid cultivars were planted. Bilateral High Cordon system and Vertical Shoot Position system (VSP) were used. Vinifera cultivars were trained on VSP while hybrid grape cultivars were trained on Bilateral High Cordon system. There were quite bit winter injuries to Vinifera grapes in 2011 when low temperatures went down to -6F. French American hybrids were more winter hardy and suffered less winter injuries. Pros and cons of selected wine grape cultivars will be discussed in addition to production techniques. This project is funded by the Ohio Grape Industries Program.