How to Choose a Grape Orchard Site

Ever since the dawn of humankind, the cultivation of grapes for wine has been a pastime of people around the world. The particular conditions needed for each variety of grape are unique, and in some cases, a matter of experimentation, as different kinds of grape orchards produce wines with distinctly different flavors. There are some guidelines that apply to most vineyards to help select a grape orchard site.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Choose soil with good drainage. This step is critical: standing water or saturation due to poorly drained soil will create all kinds of problems for growers.

2. Make sure the site gets enough sun. Sunlight is one fundamental factor in growing. Don't let your grape orchard wither away in the shade.

3. Check for air currents. This is one of the varying elements that vineyard owners talk about while explaining their own special growing processes. In some orchards, night winds or other regular air currents cool the grapes for a specific result. Air currents and temperatures are key in choosing a grape orchard location.

4. Look for good soil chemistry. In addition to dry, well-drained soils, you may want soil with a specific pH, or soil rich in certain elements. Some soils produce specially flavorful wines, with "peppery" or "smoky" tones. Make sure your soil type complements what you are trying to grow.

5. Provide for any irrigation necessary. Consider rainfall and whether you will need to irrigate. Be sure water is on hand if necessary.

6. Make space for picking. The best grape orchards are laid out in good, spaced rows for optimal picking conditions. Remember the harvest when laying out your site.

7. Think about security. You'll need to protect your crop from animal and human predators alike. Poorly placed grape orchards will become feeding grounds for all kinds of wildlife.