Seedless Grapes Planting Guide

Planting Seedless Grapes

Choose the Right Location: Grapes need full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid low spots that retain water, this can root rot the plants and kill the vines.

Soil Preparation: Grapes prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Loosen the soil and mix in no more than 20% compost or well-rotted manure to improve nutrient content.

Do not amend your garden soil with Big Box or Chain Store potting mixes meant for vegetables, annual flowers or house plants or you will kill your plants with root rot. Even the name brand potting mixes advertised on TV will kill your plants, they are not designed for any plant, shrub, or tree that is not an annual.

Spacing: Plant grapevines about 6-8 feet apart in rows that are 8-10 feet apart to ensure good air circulation and sunlight exposure.

Planting Depth: Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root system, usually around 12 inches deep and wide. Place the vine so that the soil level is the same as the plant grew in the nursery. Fill the hole, firm the soil, and water thoroughly.

Growing and Caring for Seedless Grapes

Watering: Grapes need consistent watering, especially in the first few years. Water deeply once a week, more frequently in hot weather, but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weeds.

Trellis Support: Grapes need a sturdy trellis or support system to climb as they grow. This can be done with wires, posts, or an arbor.

Fertilizing Seedless Grapes

First Year: Avoid heavy fertilization in the first year. You can apply a balanced fertilizer (for example, 10-10-10) sparingly in early spring, but too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth instead of fruit.

Subsequent Years: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. Additional applications in mid-season may be beneficial but avoid heavy feeding, which can encourage excessive leaf growth over fruit.

Organic Alternatives: Alfalfa meal, feather meal, cal phosphate, bone meal, and fish emulsion are good natural fertilizers for grapes, providing balanced nutrients without over-stimulating leaf growth. Do not use fish fertilizers if you have raccoons, as they will dig up the plant.

 Pruning Seedless Grapes

Pruning is crucial for grapevine health and productivity:

First-Year Pruning: Focus on developing a strong trunk and establishing a framework for future growth. Remove all but one or two main shoots, training them to the trellis.

Annual Pruning (Late Winter/Early Spring): Prune heavily each winter when the plant is dormant, removing about 90% of the previous season’s growth. Cut back the main canes, leaving 4-6 buds per cane for fruit production.

Summer Pruning: Lightly prune throughout the growing season to remove excess foliage, allowing sunlight and air to reach the fruit clusters, which helps reduce disease risks.

Additional Tips

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for common grape pests like aphids and diseases such as powdery mildew. Prune regularly and ensure good air circulation to minimize disease.

Harvesting: Grapes are ready to harvest when they reach full color and sweetness, typically in late summer to early fall. Taste-test a few grapes for sweetness before harvesting.