FERCAL

A Stable Foundation for Vineyards: Fercal Rootstock

Success in commercial viticulture begins not with the selection of elite varieties, but with a reliable rootstock capable of performing in challenging soil and climate conditions. Developed by the Kuban State Agrarian University named after I.T. Trubilin, the 'Fercal' rootstock is a specialized solution designed for regions with high infection pressure.

Key Advantages and Biological Features

The core value of 'Fercal' lies in its specific resistance profile. In environments where many popular rootstocks fail due to pathogen pressure, this variety demonstrates high resistance to two major threats:

• Grapevine Mildew: allows for a reduction in the frequency of chemical treatments in the nursery.
• Nematodes: provides essential protection for the root system, which is critical for long-term vineyard health.

As a medium-vigor rootstock, it represents a 'golden mean' for growers. It does not require the extremely intensive training associated with vigorous rootstocks, yet it provides sufficient nutrient uptake for the grafted variety to deliver a consistent yield.

Limitations and Operational Conditions

When selecting 'Fercal', it is important to consider climatic constraints. The frost resistance of this rootstock is moderate, up to -25°C. In regions with harsh winters, mandatory covering or specific agrotechnical practices are required to prevent damage to the root crown. It is not a 'universal soldier' for the northern limits of viticulture, but rather a precision tool for moderate climates where the risk of freezing is within manageable limits.

Who Should Use Fercal?

This variety is an excellent choice for agronomists operating on soils infested with phylloxera or nematodes. The collaboration between the originators (Kuban State Agrarian University and the Magarach Institute) has resulted in a genetically stable material that behaves predictably in scion-rootstock combinations. If your goal is to establish a plantation with minimal losses to soil-borne pests and fungal diseases, 'Fercal' provides the necessary durability.