Grape Arbor Ideas

Care and Propagation of Your Arbor

• Locate grape vine arbors in well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in sun or partial shade. You can choose a simple rectangle design or branch out into more complex arches. Sturdy 2-by-4s sunk into concrete form the basis of most designs. Train vines by hammering large staples halfway up the arbor posts and slipping coated wire through the staples to attach the vines. Select a south-, southwest- or southeast-facing slope where your arbor will be protected from strong winds. Orient your rows north to south, if possible.

Undercover Grape Arbor

• In more northern climes, you will have better success by growing grape arbors in a greenhouse, a conservatory or on a porch. Since grape vines are naturally pollinated by the wind, you will have to help grapes grown on indoor arbors. Once your vines have produced flowers, give them a light shake or run your palm across their tops to spread their pollen. Do this in the middle of a warm, dry day. Attach your vines on a wire arbor that is strung across the front of your indoor space, closest to the light source.

Purely Ornamental Grape Arbor

• Build a large arbor to cover a flagstone patio for summer shade and winter sun when the vines die back. Grow ornamental grape vines with inedible fruit for a lovely arbor display. V. coignetiae grows large, heart-shaped leaves that turn a rich red in the fall. Train V. vinefera "Purpurea" on your arbor for an intense color contrast from summer through fall.

Decorative Garden Entrance

• Build a cedar arbor with an arched top. Make sure the interior clearance is 60 inches from side to side with an interior height of at least 8 feet. Train grape vines to cover the arbor for an aromatic and creative entrance to a wine enthusiast’s back yard or front walkway.

Wine-Tasting Nook

• Build a wine-tasting nook inside of an arbor covered with wine grapes like Dorn, Muscadine, Regent or Muller Thurgau. Build a bench into the side pieces, facing each other, for an intimate space to enjoy conversation and wine with your guests. The grapes will provide shade and enhance the private feel of the nook.