Grape Vine Growing on a Trellis

Grape vine growing is not possible without support. In nature, trees, rocks, walls and other kind of structures help grape-vine growing. In fact structures are vitals for many reasons and a vineyard will use a trellis system that will act as a support for the vine. The vine cannot support itself.In the vineyard, a trellis system could be built in different ways. Some for functionality and others purely decorative.. Any kind of materials can be use such as iron, pretreated wood, stainless steel, PVC pipe, or aluminum and wires to accommodate any shapes or size.But for a productive vineyard, there are proven ways to do it. For example, colder climate will use a shorter trellis to give the vine a chance to survive the winter weather. A shorter trellis will make it easier for the grape grower to prepare the vineyard for the winter. And of course, a taller trellis can be built for moderate climate.A very important aspect to consider is the site and row orientation. Grape vines needs a lot of sun and a good air circulation. Sun and air play a very big role in ripening the grapes and controlling fungus and other diseases.The posts putted in the ground typically are three feet tall for cold region and up to eight tall for the moderate climate. For better longevity, a trellis system should be built sturdy enough to match the life time of the vine. If possible. Bear in mind that the vine will need a few years to produce grapes, so the trellis should still be there to support the harvest weight.Usually the posts that will support the trellis are cemented into the ground. Then catch wires are attached to brace the posts diagonally. Remember, this thing should last long. The posts should be set something like eight feet apart.Now it is time to tie galvanized or other non rusty wires horizontally between the posts. One row at about three inches from the ground and a second one at the top of the posts, all attached to the posts by stainless steel staples to fix them for life.Then the trellis being ready, it is time to put the vines into the ground and watch them growing. Not exactly, a good grape grower will train the vines to grow on the trellis and this is a many years job. The main shoot should first grow up and tied to the post or trellis with the help of rope or other soft materials. The idea is not to damage the shoot.Remember that the vine grows slowly. But eventually from dormant period to another, secondary shoots will appear and will have to be attached to the horizontal wires. And so on after 3 years, some juicy grapes will grow under the sun. The grape grower will then be very proud.

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