How to Care for Grapevines Before Planting

Grapevines are vigorous growers that produce plentiful fruits for fresh eating as well as jam, jelly or wine making. The vines have specific requirements and may suffer damage if treated incorrectly, even before planting. Protecting the plants from harsh elements and keeping their roots from drying out increases their chance of survival. There are also certain steps to take before planting that help to jump start growth and ensure the development of healthy foliage and fruit.

Buckets
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Store the vines in a location that is protected from direct sun exposure and maintains temperatures of 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the vines to remain there for five days before planting.
- 2
  Examine the grapevines each day and water as necessary to keep their roots from drying out.
- 3
  Prepare the grapevines for planting by placing the roots of each vine into a bucket filled with room temperature water. Allow the vines to soak the entire night before introducing them to the garden.
- 4
  Trim away all but the largest, sturdiest cane on each vine just before planting. Prune the remaining cane until only three buds remain above the graft union, which is the raised area near the base of the vine.
- 5
  Inspect the roots of the grapevines before planting. Use sharp pruning shears to trim back those that are damaged or much longer than the other roots.

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