CHOOSING A POT: –

For Growing grapes in containers choose a large study container that can support this vigorous vine. A 15-20-gallon pot that is at least 16-18 inches deep & 18-24 inches wide is sufficient start with a smaller sized pot and then repot the plant in a large one.

PLANTING: –

The best time to plant grape vine is spring or early summer planting on this time helps the plant to grow all season without the exposure to frost. But if you live in a frost free hot tropical climate the best time for planting grape vine is winters.

SOIL: –

Don’t use heavy garden soil when growing grapes in containers, instead use a light potting mix that is loose, rich in organic matter and most importantly do the drainage holes for pots.

GRAPES CARE IN POTS: –

1.POLLINATION: –

When growing grapes in containers you must know most grape varieties are self-fertile &Produce fruits on their own however shaking the plant gently at the time of flowering results in better yield.

2.PRUNING: –

During the first few months after planting until the end of the growing season, do not prune the plant and allow it to grow freely to let the plant establish well in a pot & allow it to develop a strong root system.

3.DISEASE & PEST: –

In disease fungal disease like black spot & powdery mildew, especially in dry & warm weather are possible. In pests, keep an eye on common garden insects like aphids, Japanese beetles, moths, caterpillars can also be a problem.

4.HARVESTING: –

Harvesting should be done when your grape plant is at least 2-3 years old. Generally, grapes ripen anytime between late august to late October, exactly when it depends on the variety & the type of climate, you’re growing them in.

To find out whether your grapes are ready for harvesting or not is to taste them, if they don’t then leave them for a few more days, once the grapes start to change their colour, they usually take anywhere between 1 to 3 weeks to become properly ripe. once they are ripe grapes also fell soft to the touch, eventually taste is all that matters.

USES: –

• Grapes can help with weight loss or management.
• They are a good source of vitamin K & vitamin C.
• Grapes are an anti-inflammatory food.
• Grapes is a heart-healthy snack.
• Eating grapes can help your skin.
• They can lower your risk of diabetes
• Eating more grapes can reduce risk of some cancers.
• Grape juice also having some good benefits for your skin.

KEY WORDS: – Containers, Spring, potting mix, Organic, Pollination, Self-fertile, Yield, Pruning, Disease, pests, weather, Harvesting, climate, Weight loss, Diabetes.

Write-up by: – Dakshayini s (B.Sc. (CBZ)).