Chameleon Grapes: Characteristics and Description of the Variety, Planting and Care

The Chameleon variety is a typical table grape. It's a favorite among gardeners for its sweet flavor and large fruit size. Chameleon is easy to grow; no special conditions are required, and the grapes produce fruit naturally. This variety is quite suitable for beginners, as it's easy to grow. Maximizing the yield is possible by carefully studying the variety's characteristics, including a detailed description and reviews.

Characteristics and description of the variety

Chameleon was developed in Ukraine by a breeder named Vishnevetsky. He crossed four grape varieties: Glasha, Arkadia, Atlant Zaporozhskogo, and Kishmish. Chameleon inherited only the strongest qualities from its parent varieties, making it a worthy competitor to popular grape varieties. Chameleon is considered an extremely early variety, with berries ripening in 100 to 110 days. During this time, the berries fully develop, reach their final color, and develop their flavor.

The variety is hermaphroditic, self-pollinating. Yields are stable: up to 30 kg of fruit are harvested per vine. This isn't the limit; with regular fertilizing and proper care, yields can be increased by 1.5-2 times. The grapes begin bearing fruit after 2-3 years of cultivation. Maximum yields can only be estimated when the vines are 6-7 years old.

Large berries, 10-15 grams each, are gathered in substantial clusters. A cluster can weigh up to 2 kg, yet the berries do not fall off. The fruit is slightly oval in shape, with a firm but thin skin. The grapes have a long shelf life and are not crushed during transportation. When ripe, the grapes change color from light green to pink. The skin always has a matte finish. The berries are predominantly sweet in flavor, without muscat or citrus notes. Acidity is low at 6 g/l, but the sugar content is high at 18-19%.

Chameleon grapes are bred for commercial use. The variety is popular in the market due to its attractive appearance and flavor. Both adults and children enjoy eating it. The grapes can be used for preserves: they make excellent compotes, jams, and juices. This variety is also suitable for winemaking; fermentation proceeds well due to the high sugar concentration in the pulp.

Chameleon grapes have spread not only across Ukraine but also across Russia. They are commonly grown along the Black Sea coast and in the southwestern part of the country. Planting in temperate climates is possible, but winter protection is essential. Frost resistance is low, and the grapes can survive temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F), but not higher.

Chameleon is resistant to rot and fungal diseases. Cases of powdery mildew or mildew infestation are virtually nonexistent. To maintain a high immune system, disease prevention is carried out once per season.

The advantages of this variety include:

• high taste qualities of fruits;
• large size of berries;
• good disease resistance;
• stable yield rate;
• transportability and long shelf life of fruits.

The variety has no obvious flaws. Winegrowers and gardeners have nothing but positive things to say about it.

Landing

Chameleon grapes can be planted outdoors in spring and fall. The seedlings quickly adapt to new conditions. The vineyard plot should be located on the south side of the house, with wind protection on the north side ideally provided. Grapes are not particularly fussy about soil. The main requirements are neutral pH and a low groundwater level. If the soil in the plot meets the stated requirements, planting can begin immediately.

The holes for grape vines should be large and deep: 80-90 cm in diameter and about 1 m deep. The vine grows rapidly and will require more and more space with each passing month. Grapes don't like dense plantings, so always leave a little extra space.

Necessary care

The most important procedure in caring for the Chameleon vine is pruning. This is done in the spring, where the vine is pruned back to 5-6 buds to increase fruit production. This reduces the strain on the vine and significantly improves the quality of the harvest. In the fall, all remaining leaves, poorly developed shoots, and diseased branches are removed. Pruning is done before the onset of frost, but at temperatures of 3-4 degrees Celsius. Sap circulates less actively through the branches, so removing shoots will not cause stress to the vine.

In addition to pruning, proper watering is important for the plant. Excessive soil moisture is detrimental to this variety, so water it once every 3-4 weeks. A convenient method for watering is to use furrows: dig a 10-cm-deep trench along the diameter of the bush, a short distance from the trunk. Add 2-3 buckets of water gradually to the trench each time, allowing the moisture to be absorbed. The water should be warm; its temperature should be between 20-25 degrees Celsius. After watering, apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or sawdust, near the trunk.

Shelter for the winter

Preparations for winter begin in November. Weeds are removed from the grapevine growing area, and the soil is no longer watered. Mulch (4-5 cm) is applied to the soil, and the vines are then buried in it. A moisture-repellent material is placed on top of the mulch to prevent water from penetrating the plants. Sometimes agrofibre, roofing felt, or greenhouse film are placed on top of the mulch. Space is left at the sides to allow air to penetrate, otherwise the grapes will "suffocate" over the winter.

Reviews

Sergey from Ulyanovsk writes:

"I tried grapes at a friend's dacha and was pleasantly surprised. The berries are large, with sweet, juicy flesh and thin skins. They're perfect for fresh eating. I took eight cuttings for my plot and planted them in the spring. For the winter, I covered the soil with mulch and the cuttings with agrofibre. I'm looking forward to next summer; I hope there will be a harvest."

Alexander from Mirgorod says:

"My plants are in their third year. I initially liked the harmonious flavor of the fruit, so I planted the Chameleon variety. Last year, the berries that emerged wilted a bit in the sun, and I harvested them late. This year, I applied potassium fertilizer before flowering; the grapes have just begun to bloom."