Position
Crimson grapes love full sunshine but can survive partial shade. Because this vine offers a generous amount of grape clusters, it needs to be supported on a sturdy, strong fence or trellis. It also looks lovely draped over an unsightly wall.
Size
This vine can reach a height of about 4 metres with a spread of about 2.5 metres at maturity (between 5 and 10 years old). It provides beautiful shade thanks to its generous canopy.
Soil Type
Crimson grapevines grow beautifully in well-draining chalk, clay, loam or sandy soil as it is resilient. The soil should have a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Mulch
Apply organic mulch to your pear tree all year round.
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Re-apply every 3-4 months.
Watering
As with most vines, the crimson grape does not like to be overwatered. Its roots reach deep into the soil, where it can get water. So, give it a slow, gentle water once every two weeks if there hasn’t been much rain.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release high nitrogen all-plant fertiliser, every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Pruning
This vine grows fast and needs continual pruning. Each vine should only have 4 branches (2 attached to the top wire of the trellis or fence and 2 on the bottom wire). Only 1 bud should be allowed to grow on either end of the vine. If more start to grow, cut them away. Without this vigorous pruning, your vine may well overwhelm the structure that’s supporting it.
Harvesting
Crimson grapes are a late-season variety, which means that they can be harvested all through the summer months, and sometimes even into autumn
