Grapes
Grapes prefer a light soil with good drainage and moderate to high fertility. Soil should be kept moist the first year after planting, but the grapes will stand short dry periods in following years. A spring application of fertilizer (a balanced blend) is recommended. Plant grapes in early spring or winter, pruning back top growth to two or three buds at planting time. Prune roots to avoid wadding of roots in planting hole. Grapes should be planted one inch deeper than plants grew in the nursery, and spaced eight feet APART for maximum performance.
Prune grapes at anytime from December through February. The first growing season should produce one main trunk from the two or three buds left at planting time. Select the strongest vine for this purpose at pruning time.
The second growing season should produce four lateral branches. Fewer or more may be utilized to meet individual requirements, such as arbors, trellises, etc..
When pruning back vines, always leave a finger or stub with three or four buds. Some light Summer pruning may hasten fruit development. Grapes may produce an occasional fruit bunch the first year, and a good crop the second year if full sun is supplied. A southern exposure is to your advantage.
