Rootstock AZOS 3

AZOS-3 rootstock is a grapevine variety developed in the Black Sea region of Krasnodar Krai, intended for cultivation as rootstocks. It is distinguished by high resistance to phylloxera and chlorosis, a short vegetative period, and a high yield of semi-meter cuttings.

The leaves are medium-sized, dark green, five-lobed, and finely dissected. The leaf blade has a funnel shape; the upper surface is net-veined and wrinkled, while the lower surface is slightly pinkish. The main veins on the upper side are light green, while on the lower side they are slightly more pink. The upper notches are open and lyre-shaped, while the lower ones are almost absent. The teeth at the ends of the lobes are narrowly triangular with an elongated apex; the marginal teeth are also triangular. The hairiness on the lower side of the leaf is weak but bristly along the veins.

The petiole notch is open and vaulted with a rounded bottom. The petiole is green with a pinkish tint and is equal in length to the midrib of the leaf. The vine is light brown in color and appears round in cross-section. Bush growth force is medium; shoots develop vertically. The length of internodes is 13–15 cm, and sucker development is minimal, which ensures even vine development and good berry ripening.

In rainy years, downy mildew may appear as necrotic spots, however, the incidence of leaf-form phylloxera remains insignificant (1.5–2.0 points) in the second half of the vegetation period. Due to high cutting yield and disease resistance, AZOS-3 is a promising variety for commercial grape production in the Black Sea region.