How to Plant Black Spanish Grapevines

The “Black Spanish” grape is a bunching variety with a deep, dark purple — almost black — skin. Because of its disease resistance, it is a popular variety for grape growers in the deep South. Black Spanish grapes ripen from August through September when grown within Zones 6 through 10 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone map. Install the support structure before planting the Black Spanish grapevine in the spring. Gardeners in mild winter regions can plant in the fall or spring.

Rototiller or cultivator
Bucket
Shovel
Pruning shears
Plant ties or tape

Instructions

- 1
  Site the grapevine in an area that receives full sun all day. Remove weeds in the area, and loosen the soil with a rototiller or cultivator so that the top 12 inches are broken up and free of large clods.
- 2
  Soak the Black Spanish grapevine's roots in a bucket of water for three hours before planting.
- 3
  Pull the grapevine from the bucket and locate the soil line. This appears as a brown ring around the lower part of the cane. Dig the hole deep enough so the soil line on the cane sits at the surface of the soil when the Black Spanish grapevine is planted. Dig the hole twice the width of the grapevine's roots.
- 4
  Use your fingers to spread the roots apart and fan them out. Place the roots in the hole and fill it with soil. Press around the base of the vine with your hands or feet.
- 5
  Inspect the Black Spanish grapevine to locate the strongest cane, and cut off all the others. Tie this cane to the support system with soft tape.
- 6
  Water the Black Spanish grapevine slowly until water begins to puddle at the base. Give the vine 1 inch of water a week after this.

How to Grow Black Spanish Grapes

How to Care for Grape Cuttings

Growing Grapes