Position
Grape vines grow well in full sun and prefers dry conditions rather than humidity. That’s why they do well in the sometimes intense heat of South Africa. Each vine should be planted about 1.5 metres away from other plants.
Size
Your vines will grow well on a pergola, fence, or other supporting structure. It produces bunches of round grapes.
Soil Type
The Prime grape grows best in light, loamy soil with a neutral pH.
Adding half a bag of our Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) and a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) will assist in rapid growth. They also protect the roots from being eaten by insects.
Watering
These are drought-tolerant vines that thrive in hot, dry conditions. Young vines require approximately one to two centimeters of water per week until they are approximately two years old. Once they’re in their second season and their roots are well-established, they shouldn’t need additional watering unless there is an extended drought or the soil is very sandy (allowing too much water to soak away).
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture that will rot the trunk). This will retain soil moisture and prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 3-4 months.
Pruning
Prune your vine in August. Wood that is a year old (from the previous summer’s growth) can be cut back to have between three and five nodes per spur.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) will assist in prevention or after-the-fact control. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Watch for root rot (caused by overwatering) and fungal infections during wet periods.
Harvesting
The best way to know when to harvest your grapes is to taste and feel them. They are ready to harvest when they are firm but not hard and have a sweet taste. It’s best to leave the grapes for another two or three weeks after they have developed their ripe colour. This gives them time to sweeten.
