Summer Maintenance Tips for Healthy Table Grapes
Table grapes are a delightful addition to any garden, but they require proper care during the summer to ensure a healthy harvest. This season, with an abundance of rain, my grapevines have grown vigorously, making maintenance essential. Here's how to manage your table grape vines for improved fruit quality and yield.
Thinning Grapes for Better Sunlight and Quality
One of the most important steps in grapevine maintenance is thinning. Early in the spring, when shoots were about 6 to 12 inches long, I thinned them to maintain about 6 to 8 shoots per foot of canopy. Removing suckers from the trunk also reduces competition for resources and allows for better airflow and sunlight penetration.
A dense canopy blocks sunlight, which is crucial for improving the flavor and quality of the grapes. Overcrowded foliage can also increase the risk of disease. Throughout the season, continue trimming suckers and managing the canopy to keep your vines healthy.
Trimming Grape Vines Strategically
To manage excessive vegetative growth, start by tucking long shoots into the trellis, keeping them away from the fruiting zone. If additional trimming is necessary, focus on shoots without clusters. For shoots with clusters, leave 15–17 mature leaves before cutting, ensuring enough foliage remains to support the fruit.
Cutting should be done before the fruit begins to ripen, as late-season pruning can stimulate growth and compromise the grapes. Trim at points where the leaves are smaller and not yet producing food for the plant.
Thinning Fruit Clusters
Once the fruit sets, thin the clusters by leaving only one cluster per shoot. To encourage larger grapes, snip off the bottom of each cluster. This improves fruit size and overall quality, making your table grapes more enjoyable.
Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor
With proper summer maintenance, your grapevines will reward you with a bountiful harvest. From grape jam to frozen grape treats, the possibilities are endless. So get to work on your vines and enjoy the delicious results.
In this video, Tricia shares her tips on pruning grapes.
