When to Plant White Seedless Grapes

Select the Right Variety

• You can plant one of many varieties of seedless white grapes in the early spring. Four of the most available varieties are Himrod, Interlaken Seedless, Lakemont and Marquis. Himrod is highly productive with large, loose clusters that turn a golden-yellow when fully ripe. This is an ideal variety for making raisins. Interlaken seedless clusters are medium sized with crisp, solid berries that have a tangy flavor. Lakemont is easy to grow, disease resistant and ripens early. Large, tight clusters make this a choice for home gardeners. Marquis is a midseason large berry that gets better with age and holds well on the vine.

Site Selection

• Before you plant your white seedless grapes, take into consideration what grapes need to prosper. Proper site selection is a key factor in the long-term success of your vineyard. Choose a location that is in full sun and has well-drained, fertile soil. Do not choose a location that could be a potential frost pocket. Frost pockets are microclimates that trap cold air and are often found in low spots in your yard.

Planting

• In the first year, you should plant vines in the early spring. Space plants eight feet apart. Mulch, fertilize and keep weeds from establishing themselves around your vines. Prune vines to one cane and provide a support, such as a bamboo pole or old broom handle. Tie the cane to the support to help keep the foliage off the ground and make it easier to spray. If the first year is a dry season, supplemental watering will be needed to establish new plantings. It is important to get as much growth on your vine the first year as possible.

Training Your Vines

• Establishment of a vineyard will take three to four years. During the second year, a trellis system will be needed. There are many ways to train your grapes. One popular method is a two-wire system. Vines are pruned to have one trunk, with four arms, or cordons. Another method is the hanging curtain style. This style has only one wire with the cordons draping over the wire forming a curtain.