Grapes Planting And Care

Soil

Grapes prefer a light soil with good drainage and moderate to high fertility. The soil should be kept moist the first year after planting, but the grapes will stand short dry periods in following years.

Fertilizing

A spring application of fertilizer (a balanced blend) is recommended.

Pruning

Grapes should be pruned December to February.  Vines should be pruned back each year to 2-4 lateral vines by pruning back the  top growth to two or three buds on each lateral vine.

Spacing

Grapes should be planted one inch deeper than plants grew in the nursery, and they should be spaced eight feet apart for maximum performance.

Most grape vines will produce an occasional fruit bunch the first year and will put on a good crop the second year if full sun is supplied.