How to Grow a Grapevine Arbor

Work the soil at the base of a wooden or metal arbor. Loosen it and incorporate well-drained sandy loam soil. If the local soil is heavier clay, build an elevated container approximately 6 inches higher. Fill the container with potting soil. The roots will eventually grow into the heavier clay soil, but the potting soil will give the roots strength as the vines are starting out.

Plant grapevines in February or March. Dig a hole and place the plant in the hole. Fill in around the roots with the soil you removed when you dug the hole. Tamp down lightly and water until the soil is moist.

Prune the grapes back to two buds at planting time. Make the cut with sharp pruning shears.

Choose the strongest cane as the grapevine starts to grow. Train it to grow up the arbor post. Tie it to the post so it grows into a trunk.

Avoid pruning to create a natural grapevine arbor. The vines will grow in masses without real form. However, these vines will produce fewer grapes than maintained arbors.

Prune off all side canes that grow from the main trunk along the side of the arbor. This will create a maintained arbor. Let two buds grow from the trunk along the top of the arbor. Trim the vines in February or March, leaving two or three buds on each cane. Repeat this pruning annually.