Thomcord

Thomcord: A Unique Hybrid Grape Variety

Imagine a grape that combines the best of two worlds—rich, labrusca flavors reminiscent of Concord grapes with the mild, sweet taste of Thompson Seedless. This is exactly what Thomcord offers. Developed in 1983 by US Department of Agriculture researchers David W. Ramming and Ronald L. Tarailo, this hybrid grape variety has quickly gained a reputation for its distinctive taste and robust growth characteristics.

The Birth of Thomcord

Thomcord is the result of a fascinating crossbreeding experiment that took place in the labs of the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS). By combining the seedless nature of Thompson Seedless with the aromatic, labrusca flavor profile of Concord grapes, researchers aimed to create a grape that would appeal to both connoisseurs and casual consumers alike. The process was long and meticulous, involving years of testing and refinement before Thomcord was finally declared ready for use in 2003.

Key Characteristics

How does Thomcord stack up against its parent varieties?

• Weight: A single vine can produce a hefty 21.3 kg (47 lb) of fruit, making it a robust producer.
• Berry weight and diameter: Larger than Thompson Seedless but with similar cluster tightness, ensuring a good balance between individual berries and the overall bunch.
• Berry dimensions: With an average length of 18.2-18.3 mm and a diameter of 16.7-17.2 mm, Thomcord berries are noticeably larger than those of Thompson Seedless.
• Average berry weight: At 2.85 g (0.101 oz), each berry is significantly heavier, contributing to the overall yield per vine.

Seeds and Clusters

The seeds in Thomcord are small but can sometimes be sclerified or noticeable within the flesh of the grape. Each berry contains an average of 14-22.3 mg of aborted seeds, which is a unique characteristic that sets it apart from other seedless varieties.

Cluster Characteristics

Imagine a cluster of grapes where each berry is tightly packed together, almost like a small, conical wing on the vine. This is what Thomcord clusters look like. They can weigh anywhere between 259-534 g (0.571-1.177 lb), with an average weight of 340 g (0.75 lb). The tightness of these clusters ranges from medium to slightly loose, making them well-filled and visually appealing.

Growing Conditions

Thomcord thrives in hot, dry climates where other grapes might struggle. Its ability to tolerate powdery mildew makes it a resilient choice for farmers looking to grow high-quality grapes without the constant threat of fungal diseases. With an average yield of 30-32 kg per vine, Thomcord is not only flavorful but also productive.

Availability and Propagation

Thomcord can be found in supermarkets and at farmers’ markets across the country, making it a specialty item that’s easy to access for consumers. The variety is available from the Foundation Plant Services and can be propagated freely by anyone. This means that gardeners and small-scale growers can enjoy the unique taste of Thomcord without any restrictions or licensing requirements.

Conclusion

In summary, Thomcord grape variety stands out as a hybrid that combines the best traits of its parent varieties—Thompson Seedless and Concord grapes. Its distinctive flavor profile, robust growth characteristics, and ease of propagation make it a valuable addition to any vineyard or home garden. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, Thomcord is worth considering for its unique taste and adaptability in various growing conditions.