Brazil launches new seedless white grape for Southern Growers

Brazil’s agricultural research corporation has released a new white seedless table grape tailored to southern growing conditions, expanding varietal options for temperate-zone producers.

Developed by Embrapa over an 18-year breeding programme, BRS Pérola was field-validated in Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina under protected cultivation systems. The variety delivers yields of up to 30 tonnes per hectare when grown under plastic cover — a standard model in the South to manage rainfall and fruit quality.

Positioned in the fine table grape segment, BRS Pérola is designed to partially replace seeded cultivars such as Itália while meeting rising consumer demand for seedless whites.

Berries are large and elongated with firm, crunchy texture and balanced sweetness. Naturally looser bunch architecture reduces thinning labour and improves postharvest handling. Vines show strong bud fertility and adapt to mixed pruning systems, supporting stable commercial output.

The production cycle averages around 170 days from budbreak to harvest, with southern harvests typically concentrated in February. The cultivar originates from a 2004 cross and is recommended for temperate regions — not Brazil’s semi-arid Northeast.

Propagation will roll out through licensed nurseries on a pre-order basis, with spring planting advised.

source and photo: abrafrutas.org