Joy of growing grapes in your own backyard

History has shown that grapes have been grown in Ohio since the early 1800s. A south facing slope, plenty of sunshine and a bit of fertile soil are primary ingredients for the Ohio landowner looking to grow fresh, delicious table grapes.

Grapes are wonderful for fresh eating, juices, wines, jellies, and grape butters. A local seasonal favorite is also grape pie.

Concord and Niagara grapes are the most popular and successful varieties grown in the Buckeye State, although French hybrid and Vinifera grapes are also grown by professionals. More than 2,000 acres of land in Ohio are dedicated to grape production, and of these, 300 to 400 acres are those growing French hybrid and Vinifera. Himrod (white) and Reliance (red) are also popular Ohio grapes.

According to Ohio State University, in planning for your backyard grape arbor, allow eight feet per plant if a trellis system is used, and four feet per plant for an arbor. Grape vines can be purchased from local garden centers, or by mail order, but one of the best ways to obtain a start for a vineyard is from a friend or neighbor willing to share. Grapes are easily propagated by layering, where the vines are placed on the ground and covered with dirt. Eventually, these vines will develop their own roots, and can be cut off from the mother plant and transplanted.

The soil for grapes should have a pH of about 6.0 for best results. Soil can be tested at local garden centers, through the Ohio State University Extension office, or with home test kits. Often, Ohio soils need nitrogen added to provide the best conditions for grapes. Ideally, the grape bed should be prepared in the fall, prior to spring planting. Clear away sod, weeds, and other plant matter. Add three inches of compost into the soil where the vine will be planted, and when clay soil is present, add in a generous amount of sand as well. The roots of grapes may extend six to eight feet into the soil, and the deeper they go the better the plant is able to handle Ohio's winters. Dig the hole deep and wide, preferably before the vines are obtained.

When the grape vines arrive, soak any bare root selections in water for several hours, and then prune back the vine to one vigorous cane with two buds. Plant the cane and gently backfill around it, adding generous amounts of water to the area. It is a good idea to mulch the base of the cane and the area around it with two inches or so of mulch, and fertilize it with a 10-10-10 mixture. Extra mulch can be added in the fall for winter protection.

In Ohio, grapes ripen from August through October. They only ripen on the vine, and should be allowed to do so for peak flavor. They are at their very best within the first two to three days after picking. A bushel of grapes contains a whopping 48 pounds of juicy goodness.

Ohio State Extension advises that grapes are also highly nutritious. They are low in calories, but have plenty of vitamin C and potassium. Health experts recommend eating grapes for their potential to support a healthy cardiovascular system and to combat many cancers. The skin of grapes contains a substance called 'resveratrolis', that has wonderful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Growing grapes in the backyard is very doable for most gardeners. An important part of yearly care is the annual pruning of vines required for maximum production. The grower can learn about pruning methods from Ohio State University Extension publications or agents, through numerous gardening books and magazines on the market, and on the Internet. The best way to learn, however, is from a fellow grape grower who is experienced in the fine art of producing quality Ohio grapes.