The Four Most Important Things About the Right Soil for Grape Growing

Soil Preparation

• Collect soil samples to be analyzed to determine proper nutrient levels. Especially important to grapes are proper levels of potassium, magnesium, pH and organic matter. Sow a cover crop in the fall and till it under the following spring to prevent the establishment of weeds and to add to the nutritional levels of the soil.

Soil Type

• Soil for grapes must be moist but not over-saturated. Good drainage is a must as grapes will not survive in standing water. Avoid areas that retain high water levels in early spring. Gravelly or sandy-loam soils are preferable for grape production. Grapes should be planted on either a southern facing slope, south side of a building or the south side of a wind break. Northern facing soils remain cooler throughout the season, which delays fruit ripening.

Soil pH

• Ideal soil pH for grape production ranges from 5.0 to 6.5. Add lime to adjust pH if needed. A soil analysis will dictate appropriate liming rates. Too much lime can lead to potassium deficiency. The calcium in lime can also result in manganese deficiency. A pH higher than 7.0 will make nutrients unavailable to grapes even if the nutrients exist in sufficient quantities in the soil.

Soil Fertilization

• Nutrients in the soil for grape production can be kept at proper levels through fertilization. When grapes are first planted, apply 8 ounces of a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 to each grape plant. In the second year, increase the amount to 1 pound per plant. In the third and subsequent years, apply 1 1/2 pounds of fertilizer per plant. Keep fertilizer 6 to 12 inches away from the base of each plant.