Vitis Reliance (Fox Grape)

Cold-hardy and vigorous, Vitis ‘Reliance’ is a vigorous seedless grape variety that produces medium-sized clusters of glossy red grapes early in the season. Firm and sweet, the grapes are juicy, nicely flavored and perfect for eating right off the vine.

Cold-hardy and vigorous, Vitis 'Reliance' is a vigorous seedless grape variety that produces medium-sized clusters of glossy red grapes early in the season. Firm and sweet, the grapes are juicy, nicely flavored and perfect for eating right off the vine. A deciduous climbing shrub or vine, 'Reliance' is self-pollinating and resistant to most grape vine pests and diseases. Easy to grow, Grape vines not only reward you with large crops of delicious fruits, they are also very decorative, providing a handsome leafy cover that clothes arbors, fences or trellises beautifully. 'Reliance' is a Vitis labrusca hybrid.

  • Usually ripens early in the season, making it perfect for Northern gardeners. 
  • Easy to grow, this Grape vine can grow up to 15-20 ft. tall and wide (450-600 cm).
  • Thrives in full sun in well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including sand or clay, but good drainage is essential. Best sited in a location sheltered from winter winds (preferably a sunny south-facing slope) and well removed from frost pockets. Needs good air circulation.
  • Grape vines require sturdy support for their twining stems such as pergolas, walls or fences. Perfect in cottage gardens or Mediterranean gardens.
  • May be affected by powdery mildew and botrytis

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 8

Heat Zones 6
– 9

Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
Plant Type Climbers, Fruit, Shrubs
Plant Family Vitis – Grape Vines
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 15'
– 20'
(4.5m
– 6m)
Spread 15'
– 20'
(4.5m
– 6m)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low, Average
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Garden Uses Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Walls and Fences
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden