Grapevine (Vitis spp.) ŠIRVITA

Grapevine (Vitis spp.) 'Širvita'

A prestigious Lithuanian variety with international recognition, exceptionally frost-hardy and prized for its strawberry aroma.

The 'Širvita' variety is a true standout—it is the only Lithuanian grapevine variety to be included in the prestigious International Variety Catalogue (VIVC). This success is no coincidence; Širvinta combines extreme frost resistance down to -30 °C with very early ripening and a unique fruit-strawberry flavor. Thanks to its vigorous growth, it is ideal for covering gazebos and pergolas, providing a rich harvest of aesthetically very attractive dark clusters.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Internationally Recognized: The only Lithuanian variety registered in the VIVC world catalog.
• Extreme Frost Hardiness: Withstands temperatures from -25 to -28 °C (some sources report up to -30 °C).
• Unique Aroma: Pleasant sweet-sour taste with a dominant strawberry fragrance.
• High Resistance: Increased resistance to diseases, suitable for eco-friendly cultivation.
• Self-fertile and strong, vigorous growth suitable for covering large areas.

Origin and Registration

• Origin: Lithuania. Breeder: Antanas Gailiūnas.
• World Recognition: Registered in the Vitis International Variety Catalogue (VIVC).

Variety Characteristics

Vine / Shrub

• Vigor and Habit: Medium to strong (vigorous) growth, especially on fertile soils. Mature vines easily cover an area of 2 - 3 meters.
• Wood Ripening: Shoots ripen very well and early, ensuring excellent preparation for the winter.
• Pollination: The flowers are hermaphroditic, making the variety fully self-fertile.

Bunches and Berries

• Bunches: Small to medium-sized (110 - 200 g), cylindrical-conical in shape. Once ripe, they look luxurious and very attractive.
• Berries: Medium-sized (approx. 2.5 - 4 g), round in shape.
• Color and Taste: Berries feature an interesting dark pink to blue color (red with dark orange shading). The pulp is slightly pulpy with a firm skin (typical V. labrusca trait). The taste is rich, sweet-sour, with a distinct strawberry aroma.
• Use: Universal variety—excellent for fresh consumption, but also for producing aromatic juices and homemade wine.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost: Very high resistance. In temperate climates, it can overwinter in the open field and on pergolas without protection.
• Diseases: Naturally high resistance to major fungal diseases; usually only preventive treatments are required.
• Location: Requires a sunny spot, ideally near a south-facing wall. Prefers fertile, slightly acidic, and well-drained soils. Appreciates watering during extreme droughts.

Cultivation Recommendations (Pruning)

• Pruning: Pruning to 5 to 8 buds is recommended. Due to its vitality, Širvinta is particularly suitable for growing on gazebos and high supports, which it can green up rapidly.

Harvest and Ripening

• Harvest Time: Very early to early variety (95 - 105 days). Ripens usually during August (as early as the beginning of the month in warmer regions).