How to Grow Cabernet Franc Vines

Test the soil in a sunny area that has good water drainage. The pH must be between 5.0 and 5.5, or slightly acidic. Lower the pH by mixing sulfur into the soil; to raise the pH, add hydrated lime.

Amend your soil in the planting area by digging in one part organic compost to each four parts of soil. Then dig planting holes 6 feet apart.

Plant one vine in each hole and fill with additional soil and compost. Water by running a hose at a drip for 30 minutes. Keep the soil of young vines moist, but decrease the amount of irrigation as they mature.

Drive a tall plant stake into the soil 3 to 4 inches from the base of the vine. Tie the vine to the stake with nursery tape or cloth strips to help it grow upright. When the vine grows, attach it to the stake or other support every 12 to 24 inches.

Fertilize your Cabernet Franc grapevine once a year in spring. They thrive with an application of composted animal manure or other organic compost you spread on the soil surface as mulch. You can also choose a chemical fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-20-20.

Prune your vines during the winter, which is their dormant season. Remove 90 percent of the growth the vine produced during its summer season.