Common Grape Vine

The Common Grape Vine is a woody deciduous climber with the botanical name of Vitis vineifera. It easily has potential to grow up to 10m high and 9m wide. It branches out, growing upon other plants and structures to support itself, so it is wise to be prepared in what one wishes the grape vine to grow upon.

Majority of grape vines are hermaphroditic and are able to self-pollinate. However, weather can affect the flowering process and thus cause many flowers to not fertilize. Flowering is expected in spring, where it gives off clusters of green flowers.

A sunny position is needed for this species of plant, with fertile and well-drained soil. Alkaline soil is of preference to the grape vine. Frost is also tolerated; with winter is also the time to prune back grape vines. Propagation is best done from cuttings, as growing from seed can bring unexpected and unwanted results along with taking a long period of time.

A variety of pests are a problem, with grape berry moth, grape flea beetle, grapevine beetle, sphinx caterpillar, grape root worm and the Japanese beetle all problems. Disease wise, downy mildew, powdery mildew and black rot are to be most looked out for.