Growing Grapes to Making Wine
There is a deep satisfaction in nurturing grapes from the vine all the way through to the harvest. The grape vine rewards patience. Going in to the whole grape growing process you should know that it will take about three years for your first harvest. And after tending the vines for years you can then start on the wine making process, bottling and storing. All of this, before you actually get to relax and drink your wine. Is it worth the wait? Yes it absolutely is! That is why people have been cultivating the grape and making wine since before recorded history.
Growing grapes and making wine can be a very satisfying hobby. Tending the grapes can provide peace and solitude throughout the year and a wonderful bonus at the end of the season.
Growing grapes and making wine is part art, part science and part religion
You can plant and tend your orchard and water the vines, but a major part of the magic of the wine grapes are the sun and the wind. The three most important aspects of grape growing are:
1. Sunshine.
Grape vines need to be planted in a place where they will get full sun most of the day
2. Proper Spacing.
Grapes need a lot of space between vines. The spacing depends on the grape variety. Usually you need at least six to eight feet between vines. But don’t be discouraged if you only have a small patio. You can plant a single vine in a 3’ pot and train the plant to grow up and across an arbor.
3. Water and Air.
The vines need water and food airflow to dry the water before it causes mold on the grapes.
Your grape growing will be more successful if you avoid these three commonly made mistakes.
1. Lack of pruning
The most common mistake novice grape growers make is not pruning enough or not pruning correctly. Each year you should prune approximately 90% of last year’s growth. The pruning is done in late winter when the vines are completely dormant.
2. Variety
The second most common error is choosing the wrong variety of grapes for your climate and growing season. You will need some expert advice from someone who is familiar with your area before you purchase your vines. You should have the answers to the following questions ready when you consult your local grower about purchasing your vines
• What end product are you looking for? Table grapes, wine grapes, jelly or jam grapes
• How many days in your growing season 150? 170?
• What type of soil are you using?
• What type of trellis or support system are you planning to use?
3. Harvest
The third most common mistake is premature harvesting. Overanxious grape growers start to pick the grapes as soon as they start to color. Then they are disappointed with the products that are made from the grapes. Your patience will be rewarded if you measure the sugar in the grapes before you harvest. This can be done with a simple gadget found at your wine making supplier. You can either use a fractometer or a short range hydrometer.
In any case, grape growing and making wine are crafts that are very gratifying. Sharing a bottle of wine with friends and family is one of life’s timeless pleasures.
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