Grape - Vitis vinifera
Full sun.
Jul–Sep depending on sowing time.
Mar–May outdoors after risk of frost.
40–60cm height; 30–50cm spread.
OVERVIEW
A climbing vine producing bunches of grapes in late summer or early autumn. Grow against a warm wall or in a greenhouse for best results, and prune to keep plants productive. Grapes are perfect for snacking, cheese boards, salads, or making juice.
- Vegetable type: Grape
- Key characteristic: Clusters of sweet grapes for snacking or juicing.
- Hardiness: Fully hardy (prefers a sheltered position).
PLANTING ADVICE
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil against a sunny wall or support. Best grown in the ground.
- Outdoor cultivation
Suitable for outdoor cultivation in full sun or light shade depending on variety.
- Greenhouse cultivation
Can be grown in a greenhouse for improved ripening in cooler regions.
CARE & ADVICE
Keep soil moist and weed free. Prune during the correct season to maintain shape and encourage fruiting. Thin heavy crops if needed to improve fruit size and quality. Remove fallen fruit to prevent pests and disease.
- Watering: Water young trees regularly during their first few years. Established trees usually cope well but may need watering in prolonged dry spells.
- Feeding: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertiliser and mulch annually with compost.
- Cutting and prunning: Prune during the correct season to maintain shape and promote fruiting.
- Harvesting: Pick when grapes are fully coloured and sweet to taste.
- Pest and diseases: Monitor regularly for pests and remove affected growth promptly.
VERVE RECOMMENDS
- Harvest little and often to keep plants productive and performing at their best.