More grape talk.

[Smiles Jr.]

I have never had any desire to grow grapes, but now I do.

1. Is there any information out there on what type of soil is needed and the PH range? Can you suggest web sites or discussion groups?

2. What kind of soil prep would be required?

3. How much sunlight and water is required for a good crop?

4. What kind of grapes would you recommend for a beginner? We're not into wine at all (but I guess we could be). We love to eat fresh grapes and could make all sorts of grape table foods.

5. How long does it take to produce a harvest?

I have a perfect area to put in a row or two of posts. It's a gentle slope about 100 ft. x 50 ft. We currently mow that area about 4 times a year but I would gladly devote it to grapes. It gets shade only in the early morning and full sun from about 9 AM until 6 PM.

 

[thistlebloom]

That area sounds great for grapes Smiles. I don't have grapes now, but I used to, and I'm certainly no expert, but it was my experience that grapes are probably one of the easiest fruit crops to produce. I don't think they're too fussy about soil, watering would be moderate, and pruning is easy. Probably the main thing, especially in a humid climate would be air circulation, which a trellis like those pictured
in the other grape posts would be perfect for. Go for it, plant some!

 

[Smiles Jr.]

After I posted my questions I found several great websites that offer lots of advice on soil requirements, airflow, pruning, trellis design, etc.

Now I have to determine what kind of grapes to grow.

I'll work on a bed and trellis this summer and plant next spring. Unless I get ants in my pants and plant this summer.

 

[wifezilla]

I bought my plants on a whim. I didn't test soil or anything. I just let it go. Now I get huge harvests on a regular basis. Grapes are pretty forgiving if you get a good variety for your climate.

 

[Veggie PAK]

Grapes are reputed to grow well even in poor soil like clay. I planted mine in a lawn area with regular soil and all I do for them is put four ounces of dried blood in a four foot ring around the vine and just water it in once in the springtime. I've done that for four years now. All my fruits and vegetables are organically grown.

I have Glenora, Himrod and Reliance, all of which are seedless. The Reliance is not doing well this year, though. I don't understand as it was the best growing last year. Waiting to hear test results from the cooperative extension.

This is my fourth year with the vines in place. They say that in the fourth year they will begin producing. That is very true for the Glenora and Himrod. They have an amazing amount of grape clusters on the vines! And let's not forget the ants going after the aphids!