Construct Grape Trellis
Grape vines can grow on structures like trees, walls or even fences, but you would have to choose a strong structure which can keep the vines in place. You can actually create a trellis system to make sure that the vines will still be sturdy when the grapes start to bear fruits. Depending on how you want your trellis system to look like, you actually have a lot of different materials you can choose from to create your trellis. Construct grape trellis is simple if you follow these steps.
You can use stainless steel, iron, PVC pipe, aluminum and pre treated wood. You can either make a simple, functional trellis or build one that can complement your home landscaping. Ready made trellises come in different sizes and shapes to suit the needs of the grape grower. Some trellises are only three feet high, while others can go as high as eight feet in height. Shorter trellises are functional in colder climates, since vines that are grown in them can survive bad weather better. When you decide on the height of your trellis, remember that grapes grow after several years, so your trellis will be there for quite a while.
Whatever size and shape your trellis will be, make sure it is sturdy to bear heavy weight when the grapes start growing. Find a good location where you can put your trellis system. It has be in an area where the grape vines will be exposed to natural sunlight and good air circulation.
These are two factors that can speed up the ripening of your grapes as well as keep the grapes safe from diseases. Once you have made your choice on the best location for your trellis, use some cement to create a sturdy post that will support your trellis. You may also simply secure your trellis posts with catch wires. Make two posts, about eight feet apart from each other.
Run two rows of galvanized steel wire between the posts. Put the first wire row three inches from the ground, while the second row of wires need to be placed along the top of the posts. You can use a staple gun to keep the wires in place. The secret in keeping your grape vines secured is to train them to grow on the trellis as soon as they start growing. Growing grapes may take years, so when the main shoot shows up, it should be tied to the trellis with a string, which will not damage the shoot like wire can. The next time other shoots start spouting, these should be tied horizontally to the trellis as well. All these first shoots will be the base for your grapes.
