How to Grow a Grape Arbor Patio Room

Plant grapevines in spring, after the last frost lifts, for best success. Start on the south side of the patio, to ensure eight hours of full sun for the grapes, and put a trellis against the wall. Although the grapes will eventually grow up and over the roof, they need a ladder for getting there, and won't climb the wall on their own.

Prepare planting sites at every 8 feet along the wall. Planting sites should be 1 to 2 feet from the wall to give the grapes room to grow. Dig into the top 12 inches of soil and add 3 inches of quick-draining soil and 3 inches of organic compost to provide quick drainage and rich nutrition. Mix these three soils together.

Plant the grapevines in holes that are as deep and twice as wide as their root balls. Pack amended soil in around their roots and water each grapevine with 6 to 10 inches of water to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Spread 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch around the base of each grapevine to maintain soil moisture and warmth, and to discourage weed growth. Grapes do not do well with competition from weeds or grass.

Water grapes with 2 inches of water every week, and replenish the mulch layer when it breaks down. Cultivate the soil every month and remove any weeds or grass.

Tie the grapevines up to the trellis when they get tall enough to reach. Use felt or cord ties to secure the main stems, and never tie foliage or fruiting stems. Continue to tie the grapevines until they train themselves to travel up and over the roof.