How to Grow Grapes in Nebraska
Nebraska’s climate, with its cold winters and hot summers, presents challenges for some crops, but grapes, particularly hardy varieties, can thrive with proper care. With the right planning, grapevines can be a successful and rewarding crop in Nebraska.
1. Choosing the Right Grape Varieties
Cold-hardy grape varieties are essential for growing in Nebraska’s climate:
- Frontenac: Known for its cold-hardiness and disease resistance, Frontenac produces red wine grapes that perform well in Nebraska.
- Edelweiss: A white grape variety suited for fresh eating and winemaking.
- La Crosse: A hardy white wine grape variety that does well in Nebraska’s climate.
- Concord: A popular American grape for juice and jelly, known for its adaptability to cooler climates.
2. When to Plant
The best time to plant grapevines in Nebraska is in early spring, after the last frost, typically in April.
- Dormant vines: Plant dormant bare-root grapevines as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring.
3. Soil Preparation
Grapes prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Soil type: Loamy or sandy soils with good drainage are ideal for grapevines. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Soil pH: Grapevines do best with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Test the soil and adjust the pH if necessary.
- Fertilization: Work in compost or a slow-release fertilizer before planting to provide essential nutrients for vine development.
4. Planting and Spacing
- Planting depth: Dig a hole about 8-10 inches deep and spread the roots evenly.
- Spacing: Space vines 6-8 feet apart with 8-10 feet between rows to ensure adequate airflow and room for growth.
5. Training and Pruning
Training and pruning grapevines are necessary to maintain healthy growth and high yields.
- Training system: A high cordon or vertical shoot positioning (VSP) system works well in Nebraska, as it supports vine growth and promotes good air circulation.
- Pruning: Prune grapevines during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. Remove about 90% of the previous year’s growth, keeping only the strongest canes.
6. Watering
Watering is critical during the establishment phase and throughout dry periods.
- Watering frequency: Water deeply once a week, especially during the first few years of growth. Once established, grapevines can tolerate some drought, but regular watering improves fruit quality.
7. Pest and Disease Management
Nebraska’s climate can foster fungal diseases and pests, so proactive management is necessary.
- Powdery mildew and black rot: These common fungal diseases can be managed with fungicide sprays and proper spacing for air circulation.
- Japanese beetles: A common pest in Nebraska, hand-pick these beetles or use traps to reduce infestations.
8. Harvesting
Nebraska grapes are typically ready for harvest in late summer to early fall.
- Harvest time: Grapes are ripe when they have developed full color and sweetness. Test a few grapes to determine their readiness.
- Harvest method: Use pruning shears to cut grape clusters from the vines. Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising.
Conclusion
With the right selection of cold-hardy varieties, careful training and pruning, and diligent pest management, growing grapes in Nebraska can yield excellent results. Once established, grapevines will produce delicious fruit for many years.
