What States Grow Grapes?

Grapes are one of the most commonly grown fruits in the world and have been cultivated since ancient times. They were found growing native in North America by early settlers. Grapes are a favorite among home gardeners because they can be served in a variety of ways, including fresh, being made into juice and wine and used to make raisins. Grapes can be grown successfully in many states.

Home gardeners in New York face challenges with growing grapes in subzero temperatures but can have success with the right varieties. The American Concord grape variety grows well in New York. Vines should be planted in rows 8 feet apart in the spring. Keep the vines well watered during the first growing season. The grape berry moth, native to New York, can be controlled by one or two applications of insecticides. Picking infected fruit off of the cluster is helpful.

Grapes have been grown successfully in Colorado since the end of the last century. Choosing the right variety is important for your grape crop to withstand the cold climate conditions of Colorado. Table grapes that grow well in Colorado include Himrod, Lakemont and Interlaken. Several white and red wine varieties can also be successfully grown. The quality of the grapes can be improved by thinning the blossoms, which will strengthen the vine without diminishing the leaves. Avoid planting grapes in valleys or in poorly drained soil.

California is one of the top producing states for growing grapes. Several varieties will thrive in California, including Concord, Perlette, Thompson Seedless, Flame Seedless and Black Monukka. Full sun exposure and well-drained soil are essential for successful growing. Grapes grow best in raised mounds that do not allow water to accumulate. For California growing, grape vines should be planted in January or February. Mulching will help retain moisture levels. Bunch rot and powdery mildew are two diseases that affect grapes grown in California. Powdery mildew can be controlled by dusting with sulphur while bunch rot can be effectively treated by thinning out the leaves near bunches.

Several grapes produce well in New Mexico, including Concord Seedless, Bath, Delaware, Niagara, Aurora, Chancellor and several other varieties. When planting, prune the vines to one cane with two buds. You will not need to prune them again until the following spring. Fertilizers can be applied after the second year of growth. Barnyard manure makes a good organic fertilizer. Grapes grown in medium to heavy soils require 20 to 30 inches of water irrigation during the growing season. The grape leafhopper is a common pest to grapes grown in New Mexico. If using an insecticide to control these pests, apply to the leaf portions where the insects feed.

Grapes grow successfully throughout the state of Oklahoma. Bunch grapes grow best in the western portion of the state. A large variety of grapes can be grown, including Dixie Red, Venus, Vanessa, Niagara, Riesling, Concord Seedless and Chancellor. Muscadine grapes also grow well in Oklahoma. Perennial grasses, such as Bermuda grass and Johnson grass, should be killed out before planting. Plants will grow best in full sunlight and well-drained soil. The best time for planting grapes in Oklahoma is between February 1st and March 20th.