How to Grow Sweeter Grapes

When you decide to grow any type of fruit, your expectations are probably high for a large harvest of the sweetest fruit possible. Because you certainly don't want to experience "sour grapes," you'll want to give all types of grape vines the proper amount of sun, water and fertilizer. Consistent care and ongoing maintenance are the keys to producing sweet grapes.

Compost
Trellis or other support
Fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Plant your grape vines in a sunny area: a south-facing hillside is a good environment for most types of grapes.
- 2
  Dig organic compost into each planting hole. Approximately 1 part compost for every 4 parts of soil will give your grape vines nutrients they need and will also improve soil drainage.
- 3
  Provide support for your grape vines. Planting them next to a fence or trellis will allow you to tie the growing vines to the support, which will keep the ripening fruit off the ground, where it can rot or suffer insect attack.
- 4
  Water your grape vines thoroughly once every two weeks or more often during very hot weather. Run a hose at a medium drip at the base of each vine for up to one hour each time you water.
- 5
  Fertilize grape vines in spring when they begin to send out fresh growth. Do not overfertilize. Give each vine 10 oz. of a plant food with an N-P-K ratio of 10-20-20.
- 6
  Allow your grapes to fully ripen on the vine and do not harvest them too early. Taste a few before you make a large harvest to determine if their sweetness is at its peak.

Time Line for the Growth of Grapes

Growth Regions for Olive Trees

Growing Grapes