How to Water Grape Plants

According to the University of Idaho's Extension Service, "More grapes are grown in the United States and worldwide than any other deciduous fruit." Home gardeners in temperate parts of the United States (USDA hardiness zones 5 to 7) usually grow Concord grapes for juice and Interlaken or Himrod for table use. Grapes' deep roots utilize water efficiently, requiring little irrigation.

Instructions

1. Spray vines with a hose in early spring to prevent frost damage. If temperatures dip below 32 degrees after buds have begun to swell, spray the vines until any ice on them melts. While the hose water will be cold, it is warmer than the ice and will protect the plant.

2. Water grape vines infrequently during the growing season. Water grapes for 20 to 30 minutes weekly the first year after you plant them. Thereafter, water them deeply every two weeks. If you live in an area that receives rain every week you won't need to water grapes at all. Too much water will cause iron chlorosis. Leaves turn yellow and drop.

3. Stop watering grape vines in late summer or early fall unless the temperatures remain very warm. This allows the vines to harden off before winter and prevents winter damage. If your area has had warm temperatures and little rain, give the vines one final deep watering before the first frost.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant grapes in a southern or southwestern spot in your yard.

• Use grapes for jams, juice, jellies and raisins.

References

• University of Idaho Extension Office: Growing Grapes
• Essential Garden Guide: Growing Grapes

Resources

• University of Minnesota Extension Office: Growing Grapes for Home Use
• United States National Arboreteum: USDA Hardiness Zone Map