Growing grape cuttings is the best way to grow grapes.
The main reason for this is because typically, cuttings obtain the characteristics of the grape vine where they come from, so you already have an idea of their ability to grow and bear fruit.
Unlike if you grow grapes using seeds, where most seeds don't inherit the grape vine's characteristics so you don't have any assurance if the seed will grow and bear fruit.
So if you're just starting out, or wanting to grow grapes as a hobby, growing grape cuttings is for you.
Here is a step-by-step guide for you to follow: Obtaining the cuttings You can go to your local vintners and buy their grape cuttings for sale.
These usually come from their vineyards and typically come from year old, bare rooted, dormant vines.
You can also ask your local nursery or agricultural center of their available grape cuttings.
Another option is to order on-line, where a number of vintners advertise their sale of grape cuttings.
Make sure that the cuttings are stored and shipped properly so they don't die.
Storing the cuttings Once you have the cuttings, you need to store them in preparation for the planting season.
The roots should remain damp, not wet, and kept in the refrigerator.
You can either wrap them in paper or damp peat moss, which you put in a plastic bag before refrigerating.
Planting the cuttings In early spring or after the frost season, you are now ready to plant the cuttings.
Locate an area in your yard where the soil is moist and has good drainage, and gets a healthy amount of sunlight and air circulation.
Remove the cuttings from the plastic bag and unwrap, then soak them briefly in lukewarm water.
Then plant each cutting in the soil, around six to eight feet apart.
This is to ensure that the root system would have enough space to grow and have good anchorage.
In time, usually about two to three weeks, the cuttings will take root.
Caring for the grape vines Now, your cuttings will turn into grape vines, and you need to care for them properly.
Water the plants regularly, making sure the soil is kept moist but not too wet.
Pruning must be done at least yearly to divert the growth of the vines to the fruits.
Trellises must be constructed to support the growing grape cuttings.
After each growing season, it is also important to add fertilizer to the soil in preparation for the next season.
Just follow this guide and you will have a healthy, thriving vineyard in just a few years.
Patience and effort is needed, but it will be worth it once you see your hard work rewarded.
The main reason for this is because typically, cuttings obtain the characteristics of the grape vine where they come from, so you already have an idea of their ability to grow and bear fruit.
Unlike if you grow grapes using seeds, where most seeds don't inherit the grape vine's characteristics so you don't have any assurance if the seed will grow and bear fruit.
So if you're just starting out, or wanting to grow grapes as a hobby, growing grape cuttings is for you.
Here is a step-by-step guide for you to follow: Obtaining the cuttings You can go to your local vintners and buy their grape cuttings for sale.
These usually come from their vineyards and typically come from year old, bare rooted, dormant vines.
You can also ask your local nursery or agricultural center of their available grape cuttings.
Another option is to order on-line, where a number of vintners advertise their sale of grape cuttings.
Make sure that the cuttings are stored and shipped properly so they don't die.
Storing the cuttings Once you have the cuttings, you need to store them in preparation for the planting season.
The roots should remain damp, not wet, and kept in the refrigerator.
You can either wrap them in paper or damp peat moss, which you put in a plastic bag before refrigerating.
Planting the cuttings In early spring or after the frost season, you are now ready to plant the cuttings.
Locate an area in your yard where the soil is moist and has good drainage, and gets a healthy amount of sunlight and air circulation.
Remove the cuttings from the plastic bag and unwrap, then soak them briefly in lukewarm water.
Then plant each cutting in the soil, around six to eight feet apart.
This is to ensure that the root system would have enough space to grow and have good anchorage.
In time, usually about two to three weeks, the cuttings will take root.
Caring for the grape vines Now, your cuttings will turn into grape vines, and you need to care for them properly.
Water the plants regularly, making sure the soil is kept moist but not too wet.
Pruning must be done at least yearly to divert the growth of the vines to the fruits.
Trellises must be constructed to support the growing grape cuttings.
After each growing season, it is also important to add fertilizer to the soil in preparation for the next season.
Just follow this guide and you will have a healthy, thriving vineyard in just a few years.
Patience and effort is needed, but it will be worth it once you see your hard work rewarded.