How to Grow Grape Vines on Brick Walls

Start the grape planting in spring with the first thaw. Grapevines do best with a long summer for establishment and growth, and thrive when started in 60- to 65-degree weather.

Grow the grapevines in spots on the brick wall with bright sun for six to eight hours every day and quick year-round drainage. Grapevines can't produce healthy growth or fruit without sun and rot in standing water. Give each grapevine 10 feet of lateral space on the wall for growing.

Prepare a site 6 inches from the base of the wall for each grapevine. Till the top 10 inches of soil and remove rocks, weeds and old roots for easier growth. Dig 4 inches to 5 inches of organic compost into the tilled soil for better soil quality and moisture retention. Grapevines do best with loose soil for a deep, well-established root system.

Plant each grapevine in a hole as deep and twice as wide as its root ball. Loosen the roots and spread them in the holes for better soil exposure. Fill each hole halfway up with amended soil, water with 1/2 gallon of water and finish filling the holes. This watering encourages soil settling and eliminates air pockets. Pack the amended soil around the base of each vine for security.

Prune each grapevine down to two to five growing nodes -- these nodes show the levels of growth -- to encourage branching and growth. Lay 2 inches of organic mulch on the soil around the vines to protect them from drying. Put the vines in 2 inches of water every week.

Feed the grapevines the week after planting with 8 oz. of 10-10-10 granular fertilizer per plant. Sprinkle the fertilizer in a circle 6 inches from the base of the each grapevine. Mix it into the soil and water.

Choose your training method. Place eye hooks in the wall haphazardly and tie the vines up as they grow for fuller, more artistic coverage. Alternatively, secure three horizontal wire tiers at every 2 to 3 feet on the wall and train the vines in the traditional vineyard style. Tie the main vines and canes with soft cord to avoid damage.