Do Muscadine Grapes Grow Bigger With Salt?

Magnesium

• Plants need a lot of magnesium, which is a component of chlorophyll and essential for photosynthesis and plant growth. However, muscadine grapes have a higher requirement for magnesium than do many other plants, according to the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service. Signs of a magnesium deficiency include yellowing between leaf veins -- first in older leaves, then in younger leaves -- and an upward curling of leaf edges. A magnesium deficiency can also cause fruit to drop prematurely, preventing grapes from reaching full size and maturity. Use of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) helps correct magnesium deficiency.

Correcting the Deficiency

• The Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service advises applying 2 to 4 ounces of Epsom salts for 1- and 2-year-old grape vines and 4 to 6 ounces for older vines to correct a magnesium deficiency. To feed roots adequately, spread the Epsom salts out evenly over a 3- to 6-foot area around the plants.

Testing and Location

• Launch new muscadine grape plants off to a healthy start by first testing soil with a kit from your local cooperative extension service and correcting any soil deficiencies. Plant grapes in a location where the soil drains very well and where they will receive six to eight hours of full sun daily; too much shade results in less fruit production. One-year-old container-grown plants are best for planting, according to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. Select the most vigorous shoot, 1 to 1 1/2 feet in length with a root spread of approximately 1 foot, and cut away the others.

Planting

• Plant the shoots in a row, at least 10 feet apart; however, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service recommends planting grape plants 20 feet apart. The distance between rows should be a minimum of eight feet and far apart enough to get equipment through easily. Dig a hole that provides enough room for the plant's roots to spread without crowding and that allows the plant to be placed at the same level in the soil as it was in its pot. Put the plant in, backfill with soil, packing soil down gently around roots, and water. Muscadine grapes require fertilization three times during their first year, with a 10-10-10 fertilizer and ammonium nitrate. Muscadine grapes do not require a lot of water, but during a plant's first two years, it should be watered regularly during dry periods.

Training

• For the healthiest, most productive plants, grape plants must have their framework established quickly. The basic framework of a vine consists of the trunk, permanent arms, or cordons, and fruiting spurs. The training is accomplished by pruning grape plants during their first two growing seasons, removing lateral growth until the trunk and cordons are well developed.