Mars Seedless Grape
Vitis sp. ‘Mars Seedless’Mars Seedless Grape is a cold-hardy and vigorous table grape vine prized for its sweet, seedless blue-purple fruit, strong disease resistance, and reliable performance in home gardens and edible landscapes. Developed by the University of Arkansas table grape breeding program, this variety combines American grape heritage with vigorous growth, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enjoy fresh, juicy grapes right off the vine, as well as fruit for juice, jelly, jam, or light winemaking.
In spring, the vine produces small, greenish flowers that attract pollinators such as bees, laying the groundwork for abundant fruit set. As summer progresses, lush green foliage provides a rich canopy over trellises, arbors, fences, or pergolas, adding ornamental value while supporting heavy clusters of grapes. By late summer to early fall (typically August–September), medium-to-large clusters of deep blue, seedless grapes ripen with a sweet flavor reminiscent of classic Concord grapes yet with a milder, smoother profile that appeals to a broad range of tastes.
Mars vines are notably cold-hardy and adapted for climates with moderate winters, typically growing well in USDA Hardiness Zones 5–8. Their vigorous growth habit means they fill supports quickly and produce high yields of attractive, edible grapes year after year. The slip-skin berries have thin skin that separates easily from the juicy flesh, making them delightful for fresh eating and versatile in kitchen uses from juice and jelly to desserts. With strong resistance to common grape diseases like powdery mildew and black rot, Mars Seedless is an appealing low-maintenance choice for both novice and experienced grape growers.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Choose a location with full sun exposure (at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) for best fruit production and sugar development.
Soil: Plant in well-drained, fertile soil. While adaptable to a range of soil types, good drainage is essential to prevent root rot and support healthy vine growth.
Watering: Water deeply and regularly during establishment and dry periods. Maintain evenly moist soil, especially during flowering and fruit set.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins to support vigorous growth and fruiting wood.
Mulching: Spread a 2–3″ layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds; keep mulch several inches away from the base of vines.
Training & Support: Install a trellis, arbor, pergola, fence, or other sturdy structure before planting and train vines upward to maximize sunlight exposure and airflow.
Pruning: Prune annually in late winter or early spring while dormant to remove old or weak wood, encourage new productive canes, and maintain structure.
Spacing: Space vines 8–10 ft apart (or follow trellis spacing) to ensure room for mature growth and adequate sunlight.
Maintenance: Monitor water needs, mulch annually, and prune for vine health and productivity.
Pollinator Required: No. These plants are self-fertile and will set fruit independently, though bees and other pollinators visiting surrounding flowers can improve fruit development and overall garden biodiversity.
Whether grown as a backyard vineyard, trained over an arbor, or incorporated into an edible landscape feature, Mars Seedless Grape offers multi-season interest, ornamental structure, and delicious fruit in a dependable, adaptable package.
