How to Plant Cabernet Vines

"Cabernet Sauvignon" grapes are bluish purple when fully ripe.

"Cabernet Sauvignon" is a cultivar of the common grape vine, known botanically as Vitis vinifera. Commercial growers cultivate this grape in various regions throughout the world. "Cabernet Sauvignon" is one of the most popular sources of red wine due to its superior flavor. Private gardeners also grow this cultivar for its grapes since it is a relatively hardy variety. Purchase cuttings from a commercial nursery in early spring; this variety is a hybrid and will not grow true from seed.

Things You'll Need

• Garden trowel
• Tiller
• Compost
• Fine gravel

Instructions

1. Select a planting site for the "Cabernet Sauvignon" vine. This plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 7 to 10, meaning it can grow in areas where the lowest temperature of the year is between zero and 40 F. "Cabernet Sauvignon" grows best in full sun and should also be on a slope to ensure good drainage.

2. Loosen the soil to a depth of 2 feet with a tiller. Amend the soil with equal parts soil, compost and fine gravel.

3. Remove the "Cabernet Sauvignon" cutting from the nursery container. Dig a hole at the planting site and plant the cutting at the same soil level as it was in the container. Backfill with the soil mixture and pack the soil firmly around the "Cabernet Sauvignon" cutting. Place the cuttings about 10 feet apart.

4. Water the "Cabernet Sauvignon" vines thoroughly after planting to remove air pockets from the soil. Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch around the vines to retain moisture. Provide vines with 1 to 2 inches of water per week during the growing season, from early spring to late summer.

References

• Monrovia: Cabernet Sauvignon Grape
• Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service; Growing Grapes in Indiana; Bruce P. Bordelon; April 2001
• Oregon State University Extension Service; Establishing and Producing Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Grapes in Eastern Oregon; James W. Julian, et al.; January 2009