What Kind of Fertilizer Should I Give Muscadine Grapes?

Muscadine Grapes

• Muscadines are native to the U.S., and require the warmth of U.S. Department of Agriculture growing zones 7 and 8 to thrive. There are numerous cultivars of muscadine grapes, like Scuppernong or Thomas, that are black or bronze for raw snacks, jams, jellies and baking.

Soil

• Muscadine grapes require a deep, well-drained foundation, where they get adequate nutrition but never sit in standing water. Gardeners should start their muscadine grapes in a mix of quick-draining soil and organic compost, to give the grapes drainage and long-term nutrition.

Fertilizer

• University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension recommends balanced fertilizers like 12-12-12 for muscadine grapes. These fertilizers give an equal mixture of 12 percent each nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium for rooting, foliage growth and blooming. Gardeners should fertilize muscadine grapes with 12-12-12 fertilizer every spring.

Nitrogen

• Use a fertilizer higher in nitrogen for a second feeding in early summer. This fertilizer adds resources for blooming and bearing fruit.