Taking Care of Grape Vines

General Care for Grape Vines

• 1

  Choose a site for your vine that will receive the most sunlight and warmth. Plant the vine with fertilizer to give it the nutrients it requires to thrive and bear fruit. Grape vines can grow in almost any soil as long as they have good drainage, but very wet ground or clay will prevent the plant from growing properly.

• 2

  Monitor the levels of nitrogen in the soil during the life of the grape vine. Nitrogen is especially necessary in the first year to encourage leaf growth, but too much in the years following could cause excessive leaf growth that could negatively affect fruit-bearing. Ensure the pH level of the soil is between 6.5 and 7.5.

• 3

  Water the vine regularly during each week for the first year, it may require as much as 5 gallons per week to establish a robust root structure. Protect the base of the plant with a grow tube. The tube will prevent animal or wind damage during early growth so that strong roots can develop, but should be removed in late summer to encourage hardening of the vine. Discontinue watering in late summer so that the vine can produce an antifreeze chemical that will protect it during the winter months.

• 4

  Place a wasp attractant near your vine to distract wasps and other insects from feeding on the grapes of your vine. A mixture of water, sugar, vinegar and fruit juice in an old plastic soda bottle will attract creatures with its nectar instead of your budding vine. Plant a rosebush nearby to charm pests and fungi away.

• 5

  Determine the variety of grape you are growing before deciding the best method of pruning. Pruning is intended to encourage even fruit distribution and discourage disease.

• 6

  Determine the best approach to winter care according to your climate. Do not shovel snow away from the base of the vine. Snow cover is a great insulator and will keep the root temperature stable during the winter months. Cold climates that do not receive snow are harsher on the vines and require alternative methods of winter protection.