Reintroducing a Multiuse Bunch Grape for the Deep South: 'MidSouth'
MSU Affiliation
Extension Service (MSUES); Coastal Research and Extension Center
Creation Date
2026-06-30
Abstract
In the late 1930s, grape (Vitis spp.) research was initiated by the United States Department of Agriculture in Meridian, Mississippi to test and breed bunch grapes for home garden use. After decades of development, ‘MidSouth’ was released by Mississippi State University in 1981 and is still grown in Mississippi and surrounding states today. ‘MidSouth’ is a self-fertile hybrid of dark blue-purple skin with Vitis champinii Planch., V. vinifera L., and other American species in its lineage. Although susceptible to fungal diseases and root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood), it is highly tolerant of Pierce’s disease (Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al.). Berries of ‘MidSouth’ ripen in late July to mid-August in South Mississippi, have good flavor, and produce dark red juice. Due to the presence of seeds and its slip-skin, ‘MidSouth’ is not often used as a table grape, but it is excellent for jellies. Juice from ‘MidSouth’ typically has relatively low total soluble solids (< 20 °Brix) and high titratable acid (>10 g/L), therefore its use as a red wine grape is still being evaluated. These juice qualities may potentially be improved through canopy manipulation or other management practices currently being studied. However, ‘MidSouth’ shows promise for use in red blends or as a sparkling or rosé style wine. While strictly a southern-adapted grape, recent exposure to -8.3°C in Feb. 2021 caused cold damage in only 10% of the primary buds. These preliminary observations suggest that it is somewhat cold hardy. Because of its tolerance of Pierce’s disease and Deep South growing conditions, it may also be useful for breeding purposes.
Publication Date
1-1-2022
Publication Title
Journal of the American Pomological Society
Publisher
American Pomological Society
First Page
20
Last Page
26
Recommended Citation
Williams, H. N., & Stafne, E. T. (2022). Reintroducing a Multiuse Bunch Grape for the Deep South: “MidSouth.” Journal of the American Pomological Society, 76(1), 20–26.
