The best thing about growing grapes is that they grow on a vine, with the help of a trellis. Because of this, space is never a problem and people can grow either in a vineyard, or in their very own backyards.
The Grape Trellis Explained
Since vines are not strong enough to maintain their weight, the trellis provides them with a surface to hold on to. Trellises exist in various styles: from beautiful decorative trellises to more functional ‘do-it-yourself- structures. The array of shapes and sizes also varies, where the grape trellis can be made out of iron, pretreated wood, PVC pipes, aluminum or stainless steel – and they can be homemade or store-bought.
Even though grapevines climb on a trellis and are suitable for growing in yards, you will still need a space of about 8 ft by 8 ft for one single vine.
Grape Trellis Construction
Before the grapevine is planted, the trellis must be constructed. When it comes to trellis construction and set-up the rule is: higher trellises for warmer weather, shorter trellises for colder ones. When the trellis is shorter, the vine has a bigger chance of withstanding the cold winter weather. A short trellis uses posts that are an average of 3 ft high, while tall trellises need posts that are at least 8 ft high.
Grape Trellis Location
Determining where your trellis will be located must be planned before you begin placing the poles. When planting the posts, make sure they are a minimum of 2 ft into the ground, for optimum support. Many recommend cementing the post into the ground to ensure that it will stay in place, while others suggest securing the post with the use of catch wires that are anchored to the ground, or to a second, smaller pole.
Trellis posts must be planted 8ft apart, with two rows of galvanized wire running between posts. One must run along the bottom of the poles – at least 3 inches from the ground- and one must run along the top of the poles. You can staple them to the posts by using a staple gun.
Buying vs. Building
Buying a trellis for your vines is very common amongst small crop farmers. Even though the investment is initially higher, your options widen and you are guaranteed to have a fully functional trellis, ready for use. If you are planning to buy your trellis, make sure to have the exact measurements of the prospective grapevine location so that you don’t spend unnecessary energy replacing it.
Once the vine begins to grow, it will climb up the main trellis’ wires. This is when you will help the vine by tying the grapevines to the galvanized wires. To do this, use string or cloth instead of using more wire that could potentially damage the vines’ shoots.
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