Growing grapes...

[4_Legs_Good]

Hi everyone!

I live in southern California (grape country), and I wanna grow some eating grapes in my back yard. I have 2 Thompson's Seedless and two flame and one other.

Anyway, I planted them in the ground last week.

Now what?

They're starting to sprout, and I'm planning on hanging 5' trellises along the back fence. They'll get sun 50% of the day (maybe a little more). I expect they need a ton of fertilizer and water.

Any tips?

david

[yewberry]

1. Hm. In New England we just ignore 'em

and they grow fine. Definitely need something to climb, so the trellises are a good idea. I think the vines at my mom's place do best in full afternoon light, but she doesn't fertilize or water.

Look out for the bees.

[DBoon]

2. Trim the leaves to get more fruit

but if you just planted them, you might want to let them grow for a couple of years to establish themsleves.

[4_Legs_Good]

3. How long would I wait before trimming back?

And (stupid question) you really trim back to the stump and a couple branches every year, right?

We had some concords (I think) when I was growing up.

Thanks!!

david

[DBoon]

4. Commercial vineyards do this at the turn of the year

for my dozen or so zinfandel vines, anytime between Nov and Feb. I leave a bit more than just a stump and branches, but not too much more.

Also I found that pruning back during the summer helps. Don't let it get too leafy.

On Edit: And yes, I do make wine from the zin grapes.

[4_Legs_Good]

5. Nice!

How many vines do you have and how much wine do you get?

Sounds really cool!

Thanks for the advice.

david