How to Prune Scuppernong Vines

Scuppernong grapes, also called muscadine, are wine grapes that are native to the Southeastern U.S., and they have been cultivated in many other areas as well. Growing scuppernong grapes is a way to supply your family with fresh grapes for making jellies or producing homemade wine. However, scuppernong grapes need to be pruned annually to be kept healthy and productive.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Use pruning shears to prune scuppernong vines during the dormant season when the plants are not growing. Winter or early spring are the best times to prune scuppernong vines.

2. Remove any dead or diseased branches from the scuppernong vines. Mark diseased or dead branches at the end of the growing season so that they are easily identified and removed. Use pruning shears to cut off the dead or diseased branches and dispose of them.

3. Prune the muscadine vines to keep them healthy and growing. Cut each back to the second bud on each vine growing off the main vine. Each remaining vine should be 5 to 6 inches long.

4. Check for clusters of vines growing on older scuppernong vines and thin them out to allow scuppernong grapes to be produced freely and without crowding.

5. Trim back any excess growth from the muscadine plant to keep it looking orderly. Most scuppernong vines are trained along a trellis; keep the vines trimmed to prevent damage to the trellis.

References

• Backyard Gardener: Scuppernong
• North Carolina State University: Muscadine Grapes in the Home

Resources

• California Rare Fruit Growers: Muscadine Grapes