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How to Grow Ladyfinger Grapevines

Vitis vinifera, or ladyfinger grapes, can grow up to 20 feet tall and may outlive some humans. According to the online resource Backyard Gardener, the ladyfinger grapevine can produce fruit for more than 50 years if cared for properly. These vines are often used to shade arbors, archways and decks; they produce sweet, seedless fruit. Proper care of ladyfinger grapevines can have the plants producing fruit for most of a lifetime.

Things You'll Need

  • Support structure
  • Shovel
  • Grape vine
  • Hose or watering can
  • Loose ties
  • Pruning shears
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a support structure for the ladyfinger grapevines. Common support structures include trellises, archways and wires.

    • 2

      Anchor your support structure in an area of your garden that receives shade in the morning hours and sun in the afternoon. The heat of the afternoon sun will help the grapes to grow, but too much can dry the fruit. Be sure the support is fully anchored to the ground, or the weight of the vines may cause it to fall.

    • 3

      Dig a hole right next to your support structure just large enough to hold the root ball of the grapevine. Insert the vine in the hole up to the level it was stored in its container; the level should be indicated by a soil mark on the vine.

    • 4

      Fill in the hole, gently tamping the soil as you go to eliminate air pockets. Water the soil well so that it is thoroughly moist; newly planted vines need a lot of water to get established.

    • 5

      Monitor the vine's growth. Once the stems are long enough, gently tie them to the support structure with loose ties like twist ties. This will train the vines to grow onto the support structure.

    • 6

      Water the vines as needed; this will vary depending on temperature and rainfall. Never let the soil dry out between watering sessions. Water so that the soil is thoroughly damp, but do not create mud; too much water can lead to root rot.

    • 7

      Prevent fungus diseases by cutting excess leaves from the vines to allow for better airflow. Grapes can be susceptible to fungal infections like powdery mildew if not treated properly.