Grapes

Cultural Information
Grapes are quite tolerant of varying growing
conditions. Choose a sunny location with some means of support.
Since grapes can become very large plants, growing them on a fence,
arbor or other large structure is best.

Planting
1. Dig a hole twice the size of the rootball.
2. Using E.B. Stone Planting Compost, mix one part
soil and one part planting compost.
3. Make sure the top of the original rootball is one inch
above the surrounding soil.
4. Firmly tap soil to remove any air pockets.
5. Water in with Liquinox B1.
6. Lay a 2-inch layer of mulch under the plants to help retain moisture.

Fertilizing
Grapes benefit from regular feedings by producing stronger growth and large yields of
fruit.
1. Feed monthly with E.B. Fruit, Berry and Vine Food.
2. Prevent leaf chlorosis or yellowing by applying Iron Supplement in mid-spring and again in fall.

Water
Keep soil moist throughout the growing season.

Care
Year One
Leave it alone - let it grow.

Year Two
In winter, select the strongest cane. Cut back to leave 3-4 buds. Remove all other
canes. In spring, select the strongest of the new shoots to grow as the main stem. In
summer, when shoot reaches the point on the trellis, fence or arbor where you want to
start the branching, pinch out the growing tip. Allow the two strongest canes to grow
and develop.

Year Three
In winter, secure the two canes, prune to the size of the structure. Cut side branches
back. Don't leave any spurs this year. Plants should resemble a "T".

Year Four
In winter, prune for fruit. Cut back laterals leaving 3-4 buds.

Year Five
In winter, trim out half of the canes that bore fruit and trim back to 2-3 buds. The buds
will be fruiting spurs. Space approximately 6 inches apart. Pruning in subsequent years
is the same.

For powdery mildew Bonide Fruit and Vegetable 3 in 1 Spray.

As the fruit ripens, yellow jackets, wasps and birds can create problems. Place yellow
jacket traps around the garden to reduce their numbers while netting will help protect
from damage.