|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
How To Grow GrapesCultural requirements Grapes prefer a light soil with good drainage and moderate to high fertility. They grow best in a deep soil with a pH between 5.5 to 7.0. Soil should be kept moist the first year after planting, but grapes will stand short dry periods in following years. Soaker hoses or drip tape work best. Fertility A Spring application of fertilizer (a balanced blend) is recommended after planting them in the Winter. They usually do not need too much supplemental fertilization unless your soil is depleted. Adding compost in a ring around the trunk, each year is a good idea. Conduct a soil test to make sure phosphorus and potassium levels are adequate for proper fruit production. Planting Grapes Grapes should be planted one inch deeper than they were planted at the nursery and spaced eight feet apart for maximum performance. The hole should be wide enough to comfortably spread out the roots. Insert a support stake, 2"- 4" from the stem and as tall as you plan for the plant's head. Growing Grapes Plant grapes in Winter or early Spring, pruning back top growth to two or three buds at planting time. Prune grapes anytime from December through February. The first growing season should produce several shoots from the buds left at planting time. Select the strongest shoot to train as the main trunk and head it back to the height you want. The second growing season should produce at least four lateral branches. Four or more laterals may be utilized to meet individual requirements, such as arbors, trellises, etc. When pruning back vines, always leave a finger or stub with three or four buds. Light Summer pruning may hasten fruit development. Grapes may produce an occasional fruit bunch the first year, and a good crop the second year if full sun is supplied. A southern exposure is to your advantage. Since there are many ways to grow and prune grapes, for more information see Fruits and Berries for the Home Garden, by Lewis Hill. Powdery Mildew Powdery mildew can be a serious problem for European grapes (most American types seem to be immune to mildew). Use an organic pest control like sulfur or Serenade to protect your crop.
See the following Product Category for related products:
Back to Reference Library Index
|
| |||||||||||||
 |
Entire Contents Copyright 1997-2008 Peaceful Valley Farm Supply, Inc. All Rights Reserved. GrowOrganic.com • Everything You Need For Organic Gardening P.O. Box 2209, 125 Clydesdale Court, Grass Valley, CA 95945 • Tel (530) 272-4769 Order Toll Free (888) 784-1722 • Email helpdesk@groworganic.com Site maintained by Euca Design Center |
||||||||||||