Grape, Catawba

Grow Your Own Fresh Fruit!

‘Catawba’ is a popular red variety that is exceptionally vigorous. The fruit holds well after being picked. The Catawba Grape has a very sweet taste that makes it ideal to serve fresh on the table of for juice and wine. Grapes are not particular about soil preference and do especially well in clays and loams that have been improved with organic matter. Not only do the plants produce fruit, grapevines are also ornamental. Train vines over an arbor or pergola to create a striking garden accent and you’ll soon be harvesting your own fresh grapes.

The vines are allowed to run as they will the first year and the posting or staking is done the second or third year when you will prune heavily, leaving only 2 or 3 buds on the strongest stem. As it grows you’ll keep only the most vigorous sprout to form the main stem. Shallow cultivation and mulching are beneficial.

Plant Details +

Botanical Vitis labrusca 'Catawba'
Height Varies
Spacing 8-10'
Hardiness Zones 5-8
Exposure Full sun
Foliage Large, green
Fruit Copper-red
Harvest Late September to early October

Planting/Care Instructions +

Planting Instructions: May be planted in any well-drained soil. Dig a hole large enough to encompass the roots without bending or circling. Set the plant in place so the crown (part of the plant where the roots meet the stem) is about 1-2" below the soil surface. Cover with soil to the original soil surface and water thoroughly. Fertilize when planting. Best grown in deep, loamy, medium wet, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including average garden soils, but must have good drainage. Best sited in a location sheltered from winter winds (preferably a southern facing slope) and well removed from frost pockets. Self-pollinating. Grapes need a support system, training, regular spraying and regular pruning to maximize fruit production.

Pests or Diseases: Grape plants require a fair amount of maintenance and pruning. If given the proper amount of care, these wonderful fruits will provide you and your family with years of pleasure.