Grape Growing in Eastern Oklahoma

Types

• Grapes grow well across all of Oklahoma, but Julie Whitworth of Oklahoma State University Extension notes that bunch or European grapes aren't as good in eastern Oklahoma because of humidity. More fungal diseases arise with higher humidity. Muscadine grapes tolerate higher humidity but are less tolerant of winter cold so are best grown in the southeastern counties.

Planting Time Frame

• The ideal time to plant grapevines in Oklahoma is between February 1 and March 20, when the vines are dormant. In the mildest winter parts of southeastern Oklahoma, grapes may be planted in October to mid-November so their roots establish before spring.

Expert Insight

• Soils and climate vary across eastern Oklahoma's prairies, woodlands and hills. For best information and recommendations on growing or choosing grape varieties, contact your county's cooperative extension office. Staff and print literature help inform your decisions in growing grapes and advise you of specific local pest, disease or maintenance concerns.