Varieties of California Table Grapes

Blue Grapes

• Of the top California table grape varieties, selected based on production numbers, a few produce blue-black berries. "Summer Royal" seedless grapes are grown in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 10 and produce medium berries that typically ripen in late August. "Autumn Royal" is a popular choice that flourishes in USDA zones 7a through 9b with a harvest period that starts in September. For a grape you can pick earlier, you may prefer the "Niabell" seedless grape, which is hardy between USDA zones 7 and 10. These vigorous grapes ripen in mid-July.

Green Grapes

• There are many green varieties of California table grapes to plant in your garden. The most popular is the "Thompson Seedless," which grows in USDA zones 7 through 9. The pale, sweet berries need plenty of heat to ripen, so plant them where they can enjoy full sunlight. Another popular choice is "Princess," which grows in USDA zones 7 through 10 and ripens in mid-August.

Red Grapes

• The most popular red California table grape is "Flame," which is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10. This grape usually ripens in late July and is ideal for fresh eating or for making raisins. If you prefer an autumnal harvest, pick the "Crimson Seedless," which ripens in October and is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 10. The "Ruby Seedless" is great for areas with less-hot summers, because it requires less heat to ripen. A very productive vine that grows in USDA zones 7 through 9, this grape ripens in mid-August.

No Hungry Grapes

• The best wine grapes are small ones from starved vines, but the best table grapes are the biggest, juiciest fruit from well-fed vines. Regardless of variety, ensure that your grapes will be succulent and large by growing them in deep, rich soil. It is best to have at least 4 feet of well-drained soil for your grapevines to be able to stretch their roots. Home garden vines are typically grown with an arbor for support. Each vine will take up approximately 50 square feet of arbor space.