Sphinx grape variety: characteristics and description with photos

Many grape varieties are currently known. They are being improved and refined. Breeders and viticulturists study the properties of various varieties and try to develop varieties that can bear fruit in any corner of our country. One such new variety is "Sphinx."

General information about the variety

Sphinx is a table grape variety. It presents no particular challenges in cultivation, which is why it is recommended for beginning winegrowers.

"Sphinx" is a hybrid of the "Strashensky" and "Timur" varieties. Ukraine is considered the birthplace of "Sphinx," and the founder and breeder who gave birth to this new variety was winegrower V.V. Zagorulko. What's most interesting is that he wasn't a professional or a scientist. Zagorulko simply loved viticulture since childhood.

Characteristics of a bush, tree, foliage

'Sphinx' is a high-yielding variety with dark-colored berries that begins bearing fruit quite early. The bushes are large and grow very quickly, with 95-100% ripening. The main leaf is large and neat. It easily tolerates winter temperatures down to -23 degrees Celsius. Hot weather also has a negative impact on the plant. However! 'Sphinx' bushes should be protected from drafts, so be especially careful when choosing a planting location.

Fruit characteristics

Flowering occurs late, starting around the 20th of May. Climate and weather conditions primarily influence the rate of berry ripening. Grapes generally reach full maturity by the end of August.

The Sphinx grape clusters are conical in shape, weighing just under 1,000 grams. However, some have reached 1,500 grams. The berries themselves are large, weighing around 10 grams, and are dark blue in color. The main drawback is the slow ripening process. After ripening, the berries quickly spoil and rot.

The berry's skin is firm; if you bite into it, you can hear a distinctive crunch. Inside, the berry is juicy and firm. The flavor profile is classic, but some say the grapes have their own distinct aroma and flavor. "Sphinx" is a versatile grape, but is mostly eaten fresh.

Yield of the variety

If growing conditions are ideal, a single bush can yield between 8 and 12 kilograms. Yields are average, but fairly consistent.

A characteristic feature of this grape variety is that unripe grapes are almost never found. This only happens if the summer has been very rainy. Ripe bunches must be picked within 14 days. The Sphinx bush begins to bear fruit in the third year.

After harvesting, it is placed in a cool place and stored for about two weeks.

Advantages and disadvantages of the variety

The Sphinx has the following positive qualities:

1. Ripens fairly quickly.
2. The harvest is at a high level.
3. The berries are quite large.
4. Does not require careful maintenance.
5. Endowed with excellent taste.
6. Tolerates transportation well.

In central Russia and Ukraine, the ripening period is defined as no more than 100 days. In warmer regions, the berries ripen at 80 days. Small berries are rare in a bunch. Any quality of soil is suitable for cultivation.

Despite all the characteristic advantages of the Sphinx, there are also some disadvantages:

1. The berries don't look nice.
2. The berry skin is prone to cracking.
3. May be affected by mildew and oidium.
4. A certain level of humidity is required.

Pollination

Flowering is abundant, and one positive characteristic of Sphinx is that it produces flowers of both sexes. Pollination of the ovaries occurs independently.

Resistance to diseases and pests, adverse conditions

The article repeatedly noted that "Sphinx" is a grape variety resistant to most known and destructive diseases affecting grapes. It should be treated against mildew and oidium, and drafts and high humidity should be avoided. Since the variety is frost-resistant, there is no need to cover it for the winter in southern regions. In colder climates, covering is mandatory.

Features of agricultural technology of the variety

Care and cultivation of Sphinx are similar to other varieties. It is distinguished by its excellent rooting ability. Although it is an early-ripening grape variety, in particularly cold regions it needs to be protected for the winter.

The Sphinx grapevine easily establishes itself in new locations, making it ideal for propagation. If planting from cuttings or seedlings, remember that the Sphinx grapevine dislikes wind. A good location would be near a wall, which will protect the young plant from wind. The best time to plant grapes in the ground is April, but this is only for southern latitudes. In areas with cooler and longer springs, it's best to postpone planting the Sphinx grapevine. The plant is planted in a prepared hole at a depth of about 20 centimeters. When planting several plants of this variety, keep them at least 200 centimeters apart.

Sphinx grapes require regular watering and fertilization with various fertilizers. Ash is an excellent fertilizer.

When spraying grape bushes against pests and diseases, consider the plant's growth cycle. For example, in early spring, use copper sulfate, and during the early growing season, use a product such as Riomil Gold.

Before wintering, the bush is completely pruned, but about six buds are left on the branches and then covered with material.

Feedback from those who planted

Inna, 50 years old.

The grapes have a unique flavor, an acquired taste. I find other varieties much more pleasant. I'm delighted with their yield and ease of use.

Innocent, 34 years old

I can say one thing about "Sphinx." I fell in love with this variety the first time I saw it, and I'm forever in love with it. The yield is excellent, the care is easy, and the berries are delicious. You can eat it, make jam, and make homemade wine. I recommend this variety to everyone.