Muscadines may be the folksy American of the grape world, but they have many qualities like disease resistance and unique flavors that are desired in the more popular Vitis vinifera (bunch grapes) species.
\nLikewise, Vitis vinifera \u2014 the species that most people eat as table grapes and drink in wine \u2014 has many characteristics desirable for muscadines, like thinner skin, a crispier texture and seedlessness. Successfully combining traits from these two species of grapes is a challenge due to differing numbers of base chromosomes.<\/p>\n
Margaret Worthington and Renee Threlfall with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture are co-directors of a national project supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to crossbreed muscadines and Vitis vinifera grapes for shared desirable traits. New table grape varieties like Candy Hearts\u2122 and Cotton Candy\u2122 show that consumers are excited about new bold flavors for fruit. However, the genetics for disease resistance are lacking in Vitis grapes, and there is still work needed to make muscadines more appealing to a broader consumer base.<\/p>\n
Join us to learn what new grapes may be available to grow in the future!<\/p>\n
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This interactive webinar is part of the North American Fruit Explorers (NAFEX) 2024 Virtual Conference, featuring three days of inspiring and informative online sessions for fruit growers, November 7-9, via ZOOM or by phone. Participate and ask questions in real time or watch the recorded sessions later.<\/p>\n
The conference is open to fruit growers of all experience levels and will feature 8 sessions and 10 speakers over 3 days. Plan to join us!<\/p>\n
Conference Session Dates and Times<\/strong><\/p>\n Thursday, Nov. 7 at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Eastern Speakers and Session Topics<\/strong><\/p>\n Check out the full lineup of speakers and topics on our conference webpage<\/a>.<\/p>\n Registration and Cost<\/strong><\/p>\n Members: This live conference (and recordings) is FREE for current NAFEX members. Members will receive email updates with conference notices and links. Not sure if your membership is current? Check the status of your NAFEX membership here.<\/a><\/p>\n
\nFriday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Eastern
\nSaturday, Nov. 9 at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern<\/p>\n