Kay Gray Grape training question Pictures

13 years ago

Hi,

I'm new to Grape growing .I've posted before but I'm puzzled at what to do at this stage.

I've included a couple of pictures of my Kay Gray grape vine 2nd year in the ground.

There is two shoots coming out of part of the trunk one on each side of it.

Do I let these grow on each side of the post onto the bottom wire as they are now or should I be only letting one grow up to the top of the post where my top wire is to make the trunk taller?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/maryjanej/Img_0078.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/maryjanej/Img_0082.jpg

Thanks

Mary-Jane

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Comments (3)

maryjanej
Original Author
13 years ago
P.S.
If you can't see the pictures just copy and paste it in your browser.

Mary-Jane
backyardener
13 years ago
There are many different ways to train grape vines, usually a grower will determine the best method based on variety and climactic conditions. I'm not familiar with Kay Gray and I am not sure where you are from, so it is hard to give advice. I'm guessing you are in zone 5 (would help to know where) and Kay Gray is a cold hardy variety?

I prefer to grow the cordons low (like your pictures) and allow the canes to grow up to the top wire (VSP method). I grow mostly vinifera grapes, so they are more suited to that method. Usually labrusca (American) grapes have trunks up to the top wire and the canes hang down. Sometimes one trunk is used, sometimes two. Looks like I am not really answering any of your questions - the accurate answer is "it depends".

One thing I notice in your photos is that the trunk is not straight (has a severe bend). That is usually not desirable because straight trunks help support some of the weight of the vines. It may work ok for you, but make sure it is securely attached to the trellis and that the trellis is very sturdy. Mature vines with a full fruit load can be very heavy.

Finally, here is an article on grape growing that may answer some of your questions and it has some useful pictures:

Here is a link that might be useful: Grape Growing
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maryjanej
Original Author
13 years ago
Sorry for my late reply.
Thanks Backyardener for the info and your help.

I'm from Eastern Ontario Canada near Ottawa.
Kay Gray is suppose to be hardy to zone 3 it's a white grape good for making wine or eating.

Yes I know what you mean about the trunk I should of planted it closer to the post I planted to far away.That's why there's a bend.

Thanks for the link will check it out.
Mary-Jane

Kay Gray Grape training question Pictures

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maryjanej
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Kay Gray Grape training question Pictures

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maryjanejOriginal Author

backyardener

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