Riverbank Grape

Riverbank Grapes should be watered regularly, a couple of inches per week. The amount of water needed depends on the season and how established your grapevine is. During spring growth, when the vine is at its most productive stage, Water deeply 2 or 3 times a week in dry periods. In winter, when the plant is in its dormant stage, water to just enough to keep the soil barely damp. If you have multiple vines, be sure to water each 1 separately. Always check the soil before watering as overwatering can cause fungus and root rot.

Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia) is a deciduous vine that requires a decent amount of sunlight in order to grow and thrive. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, although 8 hours is ideal. Ideally, it should be exposed to direct sunlight until late afternoon, as direct sunlight in the morning is more beneficial to the plant. In very hot regions, morning sunlight may be beneficial in order to reduce the harshness of the afternoon sun. In regions with mild temperate climates, Riverbank Grape will thrive when exposed to all day sun.

Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia) should be pruned as soon as the danger of cold weather has passed, typically late March or early April. Pruning should be done yearly, and can be done in 1 or 2 stages. For the first stage, remove any dead branches and any vertical shoots that are growing too close together. The remaining shoots should be pruned to just above a bud. A second pruning can be done in July or August, focusing on shortening side shoots and removing any shoots that the plant cannot support. When pruning, it is important to avoid cutting buds that have not opened or newly responsive buds. Pruning 3 or 4 years old wood is recommended. Pruning can be fairly aggressive, as Riverbank Grape is a vigorous grower.