How to Know When to Clip Ripe Grapes From the Vine

Grapes reach maturity at different times during late summer and fall, depending on the variety you are growing. Color is a poor indicator of ripeness: Most grapes develop their mature color before they have ripened fully. Grapes do not continue to ripen after they are picked, so it's vital that they reach full maturity before harvest if you want them to develop the best flavor. Several changes that take place on the fruit once it reaches maturity indicate the best time for harvest.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Press gently on the grapes. Ripe grapes are firm, but the fruits give slightly under light pressure.

   • 2

     Watch the color on the grapes. Mature grapes develop a whitish coating on the skin once ripe.

   • 3

     Inspect the stems of the grape bunch. The stems brown and become dry as the fruits reach maturity.

   • 4

     Bite into a grape. Mature grapes have a fully developed sweet flavor and the seeds are dark in color.