Tips For Successfully Planting And Growing Grapes

The ancient Egyptians enjoyed grapes just as much as modern people do. In fact, archaeological evidence suggests that they depended on grapes for one of their sources of food and wine. This evidence can be found in the ancient people's artwork, which depicts grapes being used. Like the ancient Egyptians, modern people follow specific procedures for planting and growing grapes.

Not every climate can support the growing of grapes, however. Some kinds of the fruit are so delicate that they need certain types of soil for growing. These fragile grapes include many variety of wine grapes.



The fruit is rich in Vitamin C and dietitians have identified grapes as part of a healthy diet. For that reason, many professional and amateur growers alike choose grapes as a desired crop. Before planting, a person should know what kind of soil they have in their yards or fields. Knowing the soil's acidity and mineral content can better assure a healthy crop. Most nurseries and lawn and garden stores have horticulturists on staff that can test samples of soil for gardeners.

Grapes do not produce berries on their first year of planting. They wait until the second year and every year thereafter before bearing fruit. The first season allows a plant to take root and for it to absorb vital nutrients from the soil and fertilizers, if any are spread on the ground.

Plants should be given several feet of space between them so each plant has a chance to thrive. Placing trellises around the plants allows vines to spread and climb, thus allowing for a more vital crop.

Most grape jams and jellies sold in grocery stores are made from Concord grapes, which feature a sweet flavor and dark purple complexion. Other varieties of grapes include Charbono, which can be found in the wine country of Northern California and in Argentina. Table grapes such as those found in grocery store's produce departments include varieties that sport green, red, blue, and purple colors. Green and red grapes are favorites for table grapes and for snacking.

Grape plants should be given direct exposure to sunlight as much as possible. It is not uncommon to see professional growers plant their crops on hillsides that are exposed to the light of the rising morning sun. Growers should also prune their plants to eliminate bind weed and other vegetation that can starve a plant and kill it.

Despite the best care given by the grower, grape plants can become infected with fungus. Among these fungi are mildew and mold, the most common infectious agent among these plants. This disease can be eliminated by the spraying of fungicide, which can be bought at most commercial lawn and garden stores and nurseries. Similarly, birds can infest a vineyard and cause significant damage to a crop. Birds can be stopped by the placement of mesh or cloth aimed at halting their flight into the vineyard. Birds enjoy the taste and juiciness of grapes. As such, they frequently challenge growers for the fruit of the plants. Taking these precautions will allow for successfully planting and growing grapes.



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