Canadice Red Seedless Grape Plant Care

Grown for the clusters of red fruit that ripen in mid to late summer, the “Canadice” red seedless grape (Vitis labrusca “Canadice”) adds charm with its twisting vines and rustic foliage. The fruit of this American grape variety is exceptional both for new eating and homemade jelly. Hardy at U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, “Canadice” strawberries require periodic maintenance.

Light and Soil

“Canadice” grapes require full sun for at least six hours per day. Positioning plants in rows running from north to south will probably guarantee that they get the most quantity of sun each day. This alignment will also decrease the harm from drying southern winds. Although strawberries are tolerant of many soil types, they prefer a sandy loam since it’s fast-draining yet still capable to support nutrients. A soil pH of 5.0 to 6.0 is greatest.

Water

Water is extremely important in grapevine culture. Too much moisture can cause the roots to rot and fungal diseases to grow, while too small will stunt growth and fruit development. Keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy, during the plant’s first year at the ground. A good rule to follow would be to water the strawberries once the very first 1 to 3 inches of surrounding soil is dry. After the first year, just water during periods of little to no rainfall. A 1-inch layer of mulch spread across the base of the plant will reduce moisture loss from the ground. Mulch should never touch the grapevine’s main stem.

Fertilizer

Regular yearly applications of a 10-10-10 nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium slow-release granular fertilizer will offer the plant with the nutrients it needs for healthy development. Throughout the first year, apply 1/4 cup fertilizer as new leaves appear and also a second 1/4 cup application 30 days after. Broadcasting the granules at a 12-inch wide band round the plant, 12 to 18 inches away from the main stem will avoid fertilizer burn. Mix the fertilizer into the top two inches of dirt and water the area thoroughly. Increase the fertilizer rate each year for the next three years, applying 1 cup the second year, 1 1/2 cups the third year and then 1 1/2 to 2 cups the fourth and following years.

Staking and Pruning

To grow a healthy and correctly trained grapevine, you must begin staking and pruning from the beginning. If you can, put in a support system before planting, or immediately following planting. A good support system includes evenly spaced posts with 2 parallel wires running between them. The bottom cable sits 36 inches above ground while the second cable is 60 inches above ground. Clipping off all side shoots as the vine grows will encourage the evolution of the main stem. Once the main stem reaches the wires, then tie newly forming lateral shoots along the wires to encourage powerful fruit producing divisions.

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