'Grape expectations' in Tumpat
TUMPAT: Grape farmer Wan Yusoff Wan Abdul Rahman has not only proven that grapes can grow in a tropical climate, but that it can bear fruit abundantly too.
He has already planted over 100 grapevines to yield a total harvest of about 30kg, with each bunch weighing between 500gm and 700gm, in his orchard in Kampung Belukar here.
"The notion that grapes grown in tropical climates are somewhat sour is untrue, as the grapes from my orchard are very sweet and almost on par with those produced in foreign countries.
"I am determined to prove that my grape plants can thrive in Malaysia's hot climate. These plants have been flourishing and producing well since 2019," he told Bernama recently.
Wan Yusoff, 40, said the grapes in his 0.4ha orchard include varieties such as Dubovsky Pink, Julian, Baikonur, Beauty Karasotkha and Gozv, all of which originated from Ukraine and the United States.
"There are also plants that are currently flowering and setting fruit. Based on my experience, there are about 47 varieties of grapes that are easy to grow and resilient enough for cultivation in Malaysia.
"I am also trying to grow the Tanaki and Shine Muscat grape varieties from Japan. The plants are producing fruit which is waiting to ripen," he said, adding that he started his project with 60 grapevines as an experiment.
Wan Yusoff said he intends to open a grape cultivation centre with an agrotourism concept near his home, adding that locals have become interested in planting grapes based on his success.
"I am confident that within a year, the grapevines in my orchard would have grown larger, and when people visit, they can eat and drink under the vines with grapes hanging overhead.
"For now, most visitors who come usually buy grapes and seedlings, which I sell along with fertiliser," he said.
Wan Yusoff said the grapevines can bear fruit throughout the year or up to four times annually, depending on the cultivation methods and the expertise of the grower."The method is quite simple. Every time the grapes are harvested, the vines should be pruned. New branches will then grow along with fresh flowers and within three months, the next harvest can be picked.
"If you want sweet grapes, do not expose the vines to rain. It should be placed in a shaded area with access to sunlight," he said.
Shandor Brenner is an American journalist recognized for his sharp and insightful reporting on social and political issues. His work is known for its depth, integrity, and the ability to highlight critical societal concerns.
