How do I Prune Grape Vines in Georgia?

Grape vines are easy to grow in the state of Georgia.

The grape plant is a perennial, deciduous, woody vine. Grapes are easy to grow and adapt to a wide variety of conditions. They grow best is light, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. According to the University of Georgia, the grape is a true berry that is about 1 inch long and is round to oblong in shape. Prune grape vines back every year to produce the highest yield and to keep them manageable.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp pruning sheers
• Bypass pruners

Instructions

1. Prune off any stems that have grown on the bottom of the vine. Cut the stems close to the main stem of the vines; the main stem is the largest, most sturdy vine that grows through the center of the plant. Make your cuts at 45-degree angles to prevent water from standing on the cuts and causing rot or disease. Prune in late winter, when grape vines in Georgia are dormant.

2. Cut off all of the dead or diseased stems with pruning sheers.

3. Choose two of the thickest and healthy stems that are growing from the main stem. Use bypass pruners to remove all other stems that are growing from the main trunk.

4. Cut back the remaining vines on the top of the trunk to remove all of the current year's growth. The wood will be grey in color and soft. Previous growth will appear brown and harder.

5. Prune anything that grows from the base of the trunk, even during fruit production, to maintain the shape of the vine. Allow the grape vines to grow in the spring and summer in Georgia, and do not remove active buds.

References

• UGA: Grape
• University of Georgia: Pruning Woody Plants
• Texas A&M: Grape Growing