Growing Concord Grapes

How do you care for Concord grapes?

2020-11-21T05:53:00.013-08:00

Grapes are a fun garden fruit for the gardeners in Kentucky. These woody vines need something robust to grow on and suitable growing conditions to produce fruit. They should be grown in at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day; good air circulation is equally important. Vines adapt to many types of soil, but perform best on a nutrient-rich, well-drained soil.

If you have not had your soil tested, you can contact your cooperative consulting office. The results of the soil tests will show you whether you need to make pH and/or nutrient adjustments specifically for grape cultivation. Grapes prefer a soil range between 5.0 and 6.0. Appropriate growing conditions help prevent potential insect and disease problems. Vitis labrusca 'Concord' is a Native American that thrives in Kentucky. They tend to ripen unevenly, and if picked too early they are not as sweet as others.

The more sun the vine receives, the sweeter the fruit is. Once the grapes have turned dark purple and appear ripe, they can be left on the vine for up to 2 weeks for optimal sweetness. Thinning out the grapes during the first weeks of fruit set also contributes to the sweetness.

As for transplanting, this is best done in late winter or early spring. At this time we are too late in the growing season to transplant the plant without exposing it to the risk of winter injury. Depending on the age of your vine, it may be a job to take out the roots, but to take out as many as possible. Cut the vines back to about one third of their current size. Preparing the new hole before digging the vine helps to avoid transplantation stress. Avoid fertilization in the first year and give plenty of water. Since grapes are produced on the growth of previous years, after pruning and transplanting, fewer grapes are expected in the next season.

Vines require annual pruning and year-round weed control. All plant remains should be removed to prevent wintering of insects and diseases. Always use clean, sharp pruners and if any canes have fallen ill, disinfect them between prunings to prevent the spread of disease.

from https://www.kentuckyliving.com/home-garden/ask-the-gardener/care-concord-grapes

Background on the use of Concord grapes for wine production

2020-11-14T05:47:00.014-08:00

Concord grapes are the most popularly planted native American grapes. Concord grapes are used to make wines, jellies, jams, and tarts. A variety of Vitis Labrusca, the Concord Grape is resistant to many of the diseases which destroy the European grape, Vitis Vinifera; they were the first onto which Vinifera cuttings were grafted to combat insects and disease and the first to be successfully cross-pollenated with European stock to produce hybrids. Most notable of these hybrids are French-American, but crossings were also made with German, Spanish, Portugese, Lowlands, and Baltic grapes. The resulting vines are hardy and produce good yields.

The Concord, however -- even its hybrids -- rarely contain the high amount of natural sugar that pure Vinifera varieties contain. They also contain more pectin and acid, and their wines may exude a musky aroma disagreeable to some. For these reasons their juice is always reinforced with added sugar, almost always diluted with water to balance the acid, treated with pectic enzyme to ensure that it clears, and may be flavored slightly with certain aromatic herbs or spices to counter the natural muskiness.

We have included three recipes below. The first produces a dry wine, so you may want to sweeten it slightly before bottling if you're not partial to dry wine. The second is diluted only slightly and requires a good many more grapes to produce, but results in a full-bodied, sweet dessert wine. Both wines should be stabilized before final sweetening and bottling, either with a commercial stabilizer (such as Sorbitol) or one crushed Campden tablet and 1/2 teaspoon of potassium sorbate per gallon. Final sweetening is always accomplished using two parts sugar dissolved in one part boiling water and allowed to cool. This syrup must be clear, so stir until every granule of sugar has dissolved. The third recipe is a "second wine," made by using the grape pulp from the first batch of wine. Grape concentrate is added to provide body and vinous quality.

If you wish to add an aromatic agent to your wine, any of the following will work: anise, bitter almond, camomile, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, corriander, juniper berries, whole nutmeg, fresh rosemary, saffron, sage, summer savory, thyme, tonka bean, woodruff, or vanilla bean. Do not use ground spices, but rather the leaf, seed, or -- in the case of cinnamon -- bark. Place an amount (one tablespoon per gallon for most, or two nutmegs, tonka beans or vanilla beans) in a finely meshed jelly bag, tied, and place it in the must during the primary fermentation only. Squeeze gently before discarding.

When adding sugar to raise specific gravity a tablespoon less than 8 ounces will raise the specific gravity of one gallon of must 0.010. For grape wines, the beginning specific gravity must always be at least 1.095 to achieve an alcohol content of 12.7%, while 12% is required to preserve the wine. This, however, presumes very little liquid will be lost during racking, which is a bad assumption. It is therefore wiser to begin with a starting specific gravity of 1.105, which under ideal circumstances will produce 14.1% alcohol by volume. Because you will lose liquid during racking, the finished figure will be closer to 12.7%.

Concord Grape wine must age two years in the bottle before being considered ready to drink. It always astounds the novice how greatly wine improves with age. A wine that is terrible after one year will be delightful one year later and wonderful in the third year. Therefore, the best plan for one to follow is to make a set amount (3-5 gallons) every year, set the bottles on their side in a cool, dark closet, and forget about drinking any until you begin the third year's winemaking. Even then, you may want to age them further. Just remember one thing: it takes five 750 ml wine bottles to store one gallon of wine; 25 bottles to store 5 gallons.

from https://www.homebrewit.com/pages/concord-grape-wine-recipes

Concord Grapes Can Improve Your Memory and Fight Cancer

2020-11-07T05:32:00.001-08:00

The purple power of the grape - especially the Concord grape - is becoming increasingly well known for the positive effects it can have on our health. The dark purple grape juice purchased in grocery stores comes from Concord grapes, and this robust, aromatic grape can help increase the daily consumption of fruits and vegetables that many of us lack. Concord grape juice is available all year round, but this is the perfect time of year to look for Concord grapes in your grocery store or at the farmers' market, as they are in season from late summer to autumn.

Although commercial grape production dates back to 1000 BC, the Concord grape made its debut in 1849 when Boston-born Ephraim Wales Bull developed the Concord grape, named after the village of Concord in Massachusetts. Since then, the variety has been an eternal favorite, from drinking the juice to enjoying the jams and jellies made from it, to eating the whole grape.

Health benefits of the Concord grape

Scientists have been investigating the benefits associated with Concord grapes and grape juice for years. The research shows that the consumption of both the fruit and juice of Concord grapes can make an important contribution both in terms of nutrition and health benefits. Here is what Concord grapes have to offer:

Promotes cardiovascular health

A substance called polyphenols is found in plant foods that act as antioxidants to help minimize the harmful effects of LDL or "bad" cholesterol and support healthy, clear arteries. Concord grapes are loaded with polyphenols that can contribute to heart health.

If you love grape juice, you're in luck, because the juice of Concord grapes has been proven to provide many of the same heart health benefits as red wine, but without the concerns of alcohol. Both wine and Concord grape juice are made from rich, dark, whole grapes that contain polyphenols naturally found in the fruit. It appears that grape juice can help keep arteries flexible and support healthy blood circulation throughout the body.

Promotes cognitive health

An emerging area that appears promising for the promotion of cognitive functions is the effect of Concord grapes on reducing memory loss in older adults. Research conducted to date shows that drinking Concord grape juice can help slow the progression of age-related cognitive decline, but further research is needed to verify this finding.

Promotes a healthy immune system

Concord grapes are a rich source of vitamin C and polyphenols, both of which can play a role in supporting a healthy immune system. One study found that enriching 100 percent Concord grape juice with vitamin C increases one type of immune cell - the gamma-delta T-cell - which sends signals to the immune system to respond. There are currently very few studies that address the role of the grape and immunity in humans, so the results are preliminary pending further research.

Other benefits

Preliminary studies suggest that the antioxidants found in Concord grapes may protect against cancer. A 2010 study found that Concord grapes inhibit angiogenesis, which can promote the growth of new blood vessels to nourish and metastasize a cancerous tumor. Another study found that participants who regularly consumed Concord grape juice had more white blood cells in their bloodstream, which can help fight off viruses, bacteria and other foreign invaders that threaten your health, such as cancer cells.

Include Concord grapes in a nutritious diet

It can be a challenge for many of us to include enough fruit in our daily diet. One option is to drink 100 percent Concord grape juice in moderation (about 4-8 ounces daily) to achieve the recommended daily intake of at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. Many people have concerns about adding sugar to the juice, but 100 percent Concord grape juice contains no added sugar. The amount of sugar in grams stated on the nutritional label refers to the naturally occurring fructose found in grapes.

Note: Read the label carefully to ensure that you are buying 100 percent Concord grape juice and not a Concord grape juice cocktail. The latter contains added sugar in the form of corn syrup with a high fruit sugar content.

from https://observer.com/2016/09/doctors-orders-concord-grapes-can-improve-your-memory-and-fight-cancer/

Health benefits of concord grapes

2020-10-31T06:23:00.012-07:00

Concord grapes actually have the power to keep us youthful because they contain high concentrations of antioxidants that protect our skin, brain and heart from inflammation and aging. The healthiest part of the grape is the skin, which is packed with not one but 19 different types of health-supporting nutrients.

Here are five huge reasons to enjoy Concord Grapes:

1. Decrease blood pressure with concord grapes

Concord grapes contain many flavonoids, including resveratrol, which can help decrease blood pressure by improving the fluidity of the blood. Resveratrol also relaxes the arterial walls to allow adequate circulation and decrease the pressure in the arteries.

2. Concord grapes are anti-inflammatory

Concord grapes contain a variety of polyphenols that can reduce the inflammatory response in the body. These grapes also have the antioxidant ability to mop up free radicals in the body and keep you looking younger, longer.

3. Eat grapes to stay sharp

Many degenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and dementia, begin with the accumulation of certain proteins and foreign bodies in the brain. Concord grapes have been shown to prevent the accumulation of these potentially harmful substances. This helps keep your brain sharp and your nervous system healthy.

4. Boost your immunity with concord grapes

Concord grapes have been shown to increase the production of the cells in our body that fight off disease and foreign invaders. Boosting these natural killer cells and T-cells will keep your immune system in tip-top shape during cold and flu season.

5. Concord grapes maintain healthy breast tissue

Concord grapes contain resveratrol, which protects the DNA in our cells against mutations that occur. Studies show that resveratrol is specifically beneficial in protecting breast tissue from the mutations that can take place in certain breast cancers.

from https://www.chatelaine.com/health/diet/five-health-benefits-of-concord-grapes

Concord Grapes for the Home Garden

2020-10-24T06:17:00.003-07:00

Virtues: Concord grapes are easy-to-grow fruits with great sweet flavor and many uses. Eat them fresh or use them for juice, jelly, jam or dessert wine. Large heart-shape leaves and twisting branches lend visual interest in summer and winter.

concord grapes

Common name: Concord grapes

Botanical name:Vitis labrusca ‘Concord’

Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Season: Fall, for fruit

Fruit: Deep purple grapes ripen in autumn. They have a sweet flavor. These grapes develop from small, greenish, ornamentally insignificant flowers that bloom in spring.

Habit: Concord grape vines typically grow to 6 feet long with routine maintenance and annual pruning. Left to their own devices, they may reach 20 feet.

Origins: ‘Concord’ is a variety of Vitis labrusca, a grape species native to roughly the eastern half of North America. This variety was develop in the mid-19th century in Concord, Mass.

How to grow Concord grapes: Site in full to part sun in average to rich soil with good drainage. More sun results in more grapes and sweeter flavor. Plant the vines in early spring, spacing them about 8 feet apart. Prune the vine back to leave just two or three buds at planting; this will encourage strong growth. Remove flowers for the first few years so that the vine puts energy into establishing a strong root system rather than fruiting; this will result in stronger vines and a better harvest in subsequent years. Prune established vines annually in very early spring, removing up to 90 percent of the previous year’s growth. Provide a sturdy trellis or arbor and train the vine up it as it grows by tying it loosely with twine and removing any weak shoots that appear at ground level. Water Concord grapes during hot, dry spells. This is a self-pollinating variety, so it can be grown alone. USDA Zones 5–9.

from: https://www.hortmag.com/plants-we-love-2/concord-grapes-for-the-home-garden

Red Grapes Are Not Just For Jelly!

2020-10-22T21:56:00.001-07:00

Sometimes it is hard to believe that one small piece of fruit can vary so much. Even though there are dozens upon dozens of varieties of red grape, the following is a short list of what I feel are the major red varieties.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir originates in Burgundy but can also call places such as Tasmania and New Zealand home and is often considered to be the lightest of all the red grape varieties. Flavours and aromas again can vary but usually are reminiscent of raspberry and strawberry while having spicy and earthy aromas. Because of the variety of flavours and aromas that can be produced from Pinot Noir, it is important to ask a retailer when first getting involved in this variety because as easy it is to have a stunning bottle it is just as easy to have a bottle that would give you nightmares. It is also important to keep in mind that although Pinot Noir is a low yielding variety it is not always necessary to spend a lot of money to get a nice bottle of wine you just need to know what to look for (which is where asking comes into play if you are unsure of a particular region or vineyard).

Shiraz/Syrah

Just as Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are essentially the same, Shiraz and Syrah are essentially the same with the differences lying only in their styles and origins. Syrah has much more spice and be a leaner and elegant Old World style grape while its brother Shiraz is a fruitier and more oaky New World star. Syrah has characteristics that range from plum to redcurrants with a lot of spice while Shiraz is a rich and intense wine that will remind you of raspberry, cedar and earth. Both are quite intense in their own right and sometimes need an acquired taste for strong, powerful fruity and spicy wines to be fully appreciated.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a native to Frances Bordeaux region and aside from being one of the best established in grape growing regions around the world, it is also considered by many (including myself) the ruler of red wines. This is also in part due to their thick skins and high acidity having created some of the best and oldest red wines around. Having an amazing universal appeal, Cabernet Sauvignon has a variety of flavours and aromas. These aromas can vary from leather and mint to fruity such as cherry and plum and contribute to the full body feeling that this wine is known for.

Merlot

A well known wine, Merlot often runs neck in neck with that of Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is grown all over the world including countries such as Australia and America with its origins in France. With flavours that can be on the fence between lightweight and medium bodied, Merlots flavours tend to be full of plum fruit flavours with little tannin. One of the more drinkable varieties, Merlot is a quick favourite with people who are just started to acquire a taste for red wine.

Zinfandel

Perhaps not as big in many parts of the world it can definitely be said that Zinfandel (also known as Zin) has found its calling in the United States where in the Napa Valley it has had huge success in creating some amazing wines. Zinfandels are known to create wines varying from light bodied to full on power houses to sweet dessert wines and ports. A fact that many people are starting to become aware of is that Zinfandel and Primitivo from Italy are not different varieties but in fact are twins.

While there are many more varieties of red grape that were not touched upon such as Tempranillo, Grenache and Pinot Meunier, the above list hopefully will shed some light on the many varieties of red grapes that are used to produce wine as even a basic knowledge of grapes will greatly enhance your ability to understand and appreciate a bottle of wine.

Table Grapes Are In Season

2020-10-15T21:25:00.006-07:00

If you thought table grapes were the same all year round, it’s time to have a taste test. The year’s best crop is fresh from Mexico. From May through July, the finest harvest of green, red and black grapes will begin to hit supermarket shelves.

These grapes’ bright color and crisp texture signify the end of winter, when fresh, new harvests begin arriving from the Mexican state of Sonora. Grapes for wine and brandy have been grown in Sonora since the days of the Spanish missionaries almost four centuries ago. Out of this tradition, growers in Sonora began growing fresh grapes that are enjoyed across the world. Sonora grapes are coveted for their notably sweet, juicy flavor.

With more than 30,000 acres of vineyards, Sonora supplies 300 million pounds of grapes for U.S. consumption.

Grapes offer several benefits. Not only are they a handy snack, but they’re a unique addition to many summer dishes, including green salads and fruit salads. They enhance the beauty of these dishes as well as their nutritional value. One and a half cups of grapes provide 25 percent of the Daily Value of vitamin C, as well as fiber, vitamin A, calcium and iron.

Try pairing mango and red onion with grapes in Red Grape and Mango Relish, a fragrant, colorful sauce to serve warm or cold. Use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or just enjoy it with some tortilla chips.

Red Grape and Mango Relish

3 cups seedless red grapes
2 tablespoons fresh minced ginger
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup diced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 mango, pitted and diced
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
Pinch of salt

Pure grapes in a blender. Strain pure, separating juice and grape pulp. Place pulp aside. Pour freshly strained juice into a saucepan and bring to a simmer with ginger, garlic, allspice and red pepper flakes. In a separate bowl, combine grape pulp with diced onion, cilantro, mango, lime juice and salt. Add the heated mixture and stir gently to combine all ingredients. Serve warm or chilled. Makes about 3 cups.

Vineyard at home? Face the cold facts of growing grapes in NH

2013-09-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

Grapes don't like to be cold. Grapes don't like to be wet. In short, grapes don't like New Hampshire, or they shouldn't. But with the advances in French hybrids, Granite Staters can make their own private vineyard as good as any more congenial ecosystem.

However, it's important to note this not a hobby for the faint of heart. It takes patience — five years of patience to be exact — in order for grapes to be ready to make wine. Also, even northern grapes are a bit picky. So things like placement, drainage and soil quality matter.

The most important thing about growing northern grapes is that your rootstock has to be perfect, said Amy LaBelle, winemaker at LaBelle Winery in Amherst.

"If you don't select rootstock that can grow in New England, you will fail. Period. So you have to select cold-hardy grapes," she said.

This used to mean only grapes like Concord, which most winemakers agree is best left to jelly. But recent advancements in cold-hardy grapes have produced good quality wine grapes.

"For example all of the grapes on our property are good to 29 degrees below zero," LaBelle said. "Whereas Cabernet Sauvignon — which is maybe the most popular grape, one of the most well-known grape — is only good to 10 or 12 above zero. So, it would get wiped out every year. It just couldn't survive here. So it's not our summers that's the problem, it's the winters."

The grapes that grow around these parts are French hybrids, said Bob Manly, co-owner of Hermit Woods Winery in Sanbornton. Manly said since most people aren't necessarily familiar with those grapes and what they taste like, he encourages those looking to plant their own to tour some wineries to really learn about the grapes and the wines they make.

"Most wine makers are usually pretty eager to share what worked for them and what didn't," Manly said.

Location

Next, pick a good site. Remember, grapes are finicky and truth be told, it's best that the soil is prepped a year in advance, according to the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension. (Unless, that is, the homemaker just wants to cover a nice arbor in his or her backyard with vines and in five years have enough grapes to make wine. If that's the case, Manly said, plant a vine or two on either side of the arbor and in five years, the winemaker will have his or her wish.)

For those interested in this as a hobby or business, there's some prep work that needs to be done.

The soil itself needs to be well-drained and sandy, although other soil types can be amended to make a nice environment for grapes. Because grapes like well-drained soil, they do well on hillsides, LaBelle said. The land should have a rise of at least five feet in every 100 feet.

"If you've got a boggy meadow," LaBelle said. "You're not going to be able to grow grapes very well."

The slope should also face south/southwest to give the grapes the best head start, LaBelle said. It's also good to get the soil tested to check its pH, which can be done through the UNH Extension.

According to the UNH web site, grapes will do best on a, "well drained loam soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5." Further, they recommend a site that seldom experiences winter temperatures below -5˚F or late spring frosts and has a frost-free growing season of at least 165 to 180 days.

The plants

Once the site and soil are sorted out it's time to move onto picking out the actual plants. First, figure out production. Legally, a home winemaker can make up to 200 gallons a year for personal use. The rule of thumb is that a single vine will produce enough grapes about one bottle of wine, once it comes to fruition.

Manly said it's a good idea to buy one-year-old vines which already have a root ball on them.

"You have the best success starting from those," he said. "There are a number of dealers in the Northeast that specialize in those types of vines."

LaBelle also suggested soaking the roots in water and root stock stimulator. She said this perks the roots right up and gets them really hydrated before planting.

The plants should be spaced 8 feet apart in rows 8 to 10 feet apart, according to UNH and soil should be packed firmly around the roots. Newly-set plants should be pruned to a single cane.

In the first growing season, shoots that develop need to be tied loosely to a stake. After that, it's important to trellis the grapes. The trellis system is made up of firmly-set, well-braced posts at 10-to-15- foot intervals along a row. Two strands of wire are attached to the posts one at roughly 5 feet and one at 3 feet from the ground. Well-braced end posts should be set in the ground at least 3 feet deep

Don't fertilize too much, experts said, otherwise the winemaker may get too vigorous of growth.

Don't rush

LaBelle said some vines may be so happy that they will start to push fruit in the first year. If that happens, they should be cut back. And Manly said a vine typically will produce more grapes than you want, which is why wine grape growers will cut back the grapes in the first year of production.

"You don't want the carbohydrates to go into the grapes," LaBelle said. "You want the carbohydrates to go into the root development and shoot development."

The first year, the grapes are cut and used for compost; the second year is selective cutting. Third-year grapes should be good enough to try making some wine, but true wine production comes in year four or five.

In the fourth or fifth year, the grapes should be ready. According to the Extension, it's not a good idea to judge maturty of the vine by color of the grape since grapes will naturally change color before they are fully ripe. Taste is a better way since almost all varieties become sweeter and less acidic as they mature.

Taking a look at the seed color is also a good way since seeds change color from green to brown as the grapes mature.

source newhampshire.com

Grapes: They're Good for Your Heart (and Your Head)

2013-09-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Among the growing amount of research that promotes the presence of Concord grapes and grape juice in healthy lifestyles, two recently published scientific papers report that Concord grapes, the purple and red grapes used to make Welch's grape juice, can have positive effects on cardiovascular and cognitive health.

Further research, published by the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, also outlines the positive benefits that grape juice can have on cognitive health. The paper reports on a study conducted by Robert Krikorian, Ph.D., and his colleagues at the University of Cincinnati that found Concord grape juice helps to stop mild memory loss. The paper concludes that a daily intake of grape juice will greatly benefit older adults who suffer from early cognitive decline.

While the studies bring some positive diet trends to light, they also highlight the lack of presence that dark produce, such as Concord grapes, have in every day diets. Welch's grape expert and Health and Nutrition lead Casey Lewis comments:

"These two new scientific papers emphasize the role colorful produce, including dark purple Concord grapes, can play in a healthy diet. However, despite the evidence linking colorful produce to health, many people aren't getting enough fruits and vegetables in their day. In particular, most of us fall short on blue and purple fruits and vegetables, which only account for 3 percent of total produce intake."

With the results of these new studies, it's now more important than ever to introduce grapes and grape juice into your diet. "To help boost heart-healthy purple in your diet, you can make smoothies with 100 percent grape juice made with Concord grapes, freeze 100 percent grape juice in paper cups or ice-cube trays for a tasty treat, or try a colorful recipe using grapes and grape juice," says Lewis.

source news.sudanvisiondaily.com

Lake Erie Grape Discovery Center Opens

2013-09-15T17:05:00.002-07:00

A symbol of the great lakes grape growing region is open to the public and ready for business. The new Grape Discovery Center in Westfield, New York, had its grand opening. Our grape region extends from Silver Creek to Harborcreek, and the new center is bringing attention to the industry. The Concord Grape Belt Heritage Association wanted a visitor center to bring the community together to learn about the area. The decade of brainstorming is complete, and the building is open.

The center had a soft opening May 25th, but today was the grand opening with a ribbon cutting. The original grant was more than a million dollars and donors have chipped in since then. The building includes a spacious floor plan with a gift shop with all things wine and grapes. There is a tasting room for wine and concord grape juice. The exhibit room was just finished two weeks ago. It's interactive and will walk you through 150 years of grape growing and all that it entails.

The location is in the geographic heart of the grape belt, in the midst of a vineyard. The center is meant to support and promote the grape industry, bringing in tourists and locals to explore the heritage. The area is the largest in the World for Concord grapes and there are over 30,000 acres.

The Best Time to Pick Concord Grapes for the Best Flavor

2013-05-06T22:52:00.000-07:00

Growing Concord grapes takes a little effort and even less room and can produce fruit reliably for as long as 75 years. Let taste, not change of color, be your guide to know when to harvest. When the grapes are sweet and bursting with juice, cut off, do not pull, the entire cluster. Vines begin to bear fruit two to three years after planting.

Taste

Concord grapes have a slightly tart, strong musky flavor and are not as sweet as green and red grapes. This variety of grape is best suited for jams, jellies and juice and less so for wine.
When harvesting grapes, the taste test goes a long way in knowing when to pick; the grape is at its sweetest at peak harvesting time. Developed on the east coast and named after the town of Concord, Massachusetts, this variety of grape is cold hardy and grown throughout the United States.

Color

While knowing when to harvest Concord grapes is more about taste than color, Concord grapes will turn a telltale darker shade two to three weeks before peak harvest. The color can vary depending on where it is grown, with the standard deep blue-purple color slightly lighter in colder areas and darker in warmer climates.

Harvesting

The color of the vine also indicates when to harvest Concord grapes. Throughout the growing season, the vine and stems are a light to medium green. When the vine and stems begin to turn to a light then medium brown, it means the grapes are ripening and ready to harvest. When the vine and stems are a deep-dark brown to black, the window for harvesting is likely passed and the fruit has over-ripened.

Commercially Grown

A mainstay for grape juice, the Concord is often grown commercially because it is easy to grow, has a short growing season, is cold hardy and a "slip-skin" variety, meaning the skin is easy to remove. Commercial growers use color, taste, firmness, vine color and even weight to determine the best time to pick Concord grapes.

Source: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/time-pick-concord-grapes-flavor-36264.html

History of the Concord Grape

2013-05-06T22:47:00.000-07:00

Commercial production of grapes dates all the way back to the year 1000 B.C. It was not until the year 1854 that the Concord variety came into being. The Concord grape is named after the Massachusetts village of Concord where the first vines were originally cultivated. The Concord grape is an extremely robust and aromatic grape derived from wild native species growing throughout New England in the most rugged soils.

Through experimentation with native seeds, Boston-born Ephraim Wales Bull created the Concord grape in the year 1849. At his farm outside the village of Concord, Bull planted some 22,000 seedlings before he produced the grape he was looking for.the Concord. He was determined throughout his experimentation to produce a variety that was early to ripen and possessed a full bodied flavor.
The Concord was a perfect fit for his expectations. In 1853, Bull felt that his new variety should be put before the public and he ended up winning first prize at the Boston Horticultural Society exhibition. News of Bull's variety spread worldwide and hence he was indeed "the father of the Concord Grape". He sold cuttings of his grape for $1,000 a piece and unfortunately died a poor man. His tombstone reads, "He sowed - others reaped".

The first non-fermented Concord grape juice was processed in 1869 by a New Jersey dentist named Dr. Thomas Welch. Dr. Welch and his family gathered up 40 pounds of Concords from a trellis in front of their house. In the kitchen of their home, Dr. Welch cooked the grapes for a few minutes, squeezed the juices out with cloth bags, and poured the world's first fresh Concord grape juice into 12 one quart bottles on the kitchen table.

Dr. Welch then processed his juice by stoppering them with waxed corks and boiling them in water, killing native yeasts that would cause his juice to ferment. This method of preservation was a success, and his use of Louis Pasteur's theory of pasteurization labels Dr. Welch as the pioneer of processed fruit juices in America. The first Concord grape juice was used on the Communion table at a local Methodist church for sacramental purposes, and most of the first orders for Concord juice came from churches for Communion.

In 1896, Dr. Welch's son, Charles, transferred the juice operation to Watkins Glen, New York and in the following year, to Westfield, New York. 300 tons of Concords were processed in 1897.

In the 20th century, the Concord grape industry boomed. Today, growers harvest more than 350,000 tons of Concords per year in the U.S. Washington grows the largest number, followed by New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Missouri.

http://www.concordgrapejuice.com/history.htm

Nutritional Facts About Concord Grapes

2013-05-06T22:33:00.002-07:00

Concord grapes are purple or almost dark blue in color. According to the Concord Grape Association, they are grown primarily to be made into grape juice and jelly, though some concord grapes are sold as whole fruit. The dark color of the fruit's skin contains plant-based nutrients called phytonutrients that contain antioxidant properties. Concord grapes and juice are nutritionally rich. They are low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals.

Nutrition Basics

Concord grapes are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium and phosphorus. A 1-cup serving of the whole fruit contains 62 calories and a mere 0.3g of fat, according to the Concord Grape Association. The sodium content of concord grapes is 2mg per serving. The fruit is a good non-dairy source of calcium, with 13mg packed into each cup. Concord grapes contain 9mg phosphorus per serving and a small amount of protein, at approximately a half-gram per cup. The carbohydrate count for a cup of concord grapes is 15.8g.

Polyphenols

The distinctive purple or blue-black skin of the concord grape contains a phytonutrient, or plant-based nutritional component, called polyphenol. Polyphenols are a type of compound naturally found in foods that are purple or red in color, including red and purple grapes, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and red wine. Apples and onions also contain polyphenols. This nutrient acts as an antioxidant and protects your body from cell damage caused by toxins in the body. According to the USDA Agricultural Research Service, polyphenols found in concord grapes and other foods can strengthen your immune response, heal damage that you may have sustained at the cellular level if you smoke, and could even protect you from developing some forms of cancer.

Oxalates

Concord grapes are a natural source of oxalates, a substance that everyone has in their body. Your body makes oxalates, but you can also consume foods that contain the substance as well. People who have a risk for developing kidney stones may need to limit the amount of oxalates that they consume, as the substance can solidify inside the body and become a main component of kidney stones. If you have a history of kidney problems, check with your doctor before you eat large quantities of concord grapes or related products.

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/113196-nutritional-concord-grapes/#ixzz2Sa8GuVrz

In What Zones Can Concord Grapes Grow?

2013-05-02T06:04:00.000-07:00

A selection of native American fox grape (Vitis labrusca), Concord yields dark violet fruits with a powdery white residue. Known as a slipskin type, with a leathery outer skin that easily slides away from the inner juicy flesh, Concord grapes contain seeds. This cultivar demonstrates considerable resilience to winter cold when dormant, unlike the more famous European wine grape types. It prospers across the central and northern parts of the United States, and is the most widely grown grape east of the Rocky Mountains.

Winter Hardiness
Based on average annual winter minimum temperatures, Concord grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3b through 9a. Some subfreezing temperatures must occur when the vine is dormant for long-term health, vitality and production of flowers each late spring. Significant vine cane dieback occurs in USDA zones 3 through 5 if cold, drying winds bombard the plant in winter. According to the University of Minnesota, Concord is not reliably hardy in USDA zones 3 and 4.

Regional Considerations
Although Concord is considered by horticulturists as a midseason ripening grape, insufficient time for ripening may occur in the northernmost U.S. For example, in USDA zones 3 and 4, early fall frosts in late September can severely damage grapes, causing them to burst. Therefore, grapes must be picked early to save them from frost or freeze damage. Their flesh flavor may not fully develop before fall cold causes leaves to turn color and drop away. A Concord grape plant needs at least 150 days of frost-free growing to develop ripe fruits for a good harvest.

Climate Zones
In the western United States, where highly variable elevation makes use of the USDA zones tedious and confusing, the Sunset climate zone system dominates. Concord grapes grow best in zones 2b and 3, 6 through 9 and 14 through 23. This grape does not fare well in the coldest, highest elevations of the Rockies, in arid deserts, along the Pacific Coast or where winters rarely endure frost.

Cultural Considerations
Concord grapes may grow well in USDA zones 3 and 4 if canes are removed in late fall and rested on the ground. Then place a 12- to 24-inch mulch over the canes to insulate them from brutal cold. The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association website notes that Concord grapes are hardy only to minus-15 degrees Fahrenheit without protection. Comparable dark-fruited fox grapes for colder winter regions include cultivars "Edelweiss," "Fredonia" and "Bluebell."

Read more: In What Zones Can Concord Grapes Grow? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8314093_zones-can-concord-grapes-grow.html#ixzz2S8jimgCo

When to Plant Concord Grapes

2013-05-02T05:57:00.001-07:00

Grown for jellies and juices as well as fresh eating, Concord grapes are a well-known American grape variety that is hardy and disease-resistant. Grapes are not the easiest fruit to produce in a backyard garden, but grape vines can be highly productive with proper care and maintenance, which starts with planting at just the right time.

Time Frame

Like most grapes, Concord vines should be planted in late winter to early spring, while they are dormant. Try to plant as soon as the soil has thawed and is dry enough to work with. Fall planting is also possible in warmer areas, but fall-planted grapes are prone to injury from frozen roots and ground heaving during their first winter.

Conditions

Concord grapes should be planted in a location with good air circulation and ample sunlight. They can adapt to a variety of soils as long as they are moist and well-drained. Neutral to slightly acid soil is best, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. The soil should be fertile, but using excessive fertilizers can cause the vines to grow extremely leafy, which reduces the amount of fruit they produce.

Planting & Spacing

Plant concord grapes about 8 feet apart in rows 8 to 10 feet apart. Dig holes that are wide enough to accommodate all the roots without bending them, and avoid planting any deeper than they would naturally grow. At the time of planting, prune away any dead or broken branches and water generously. Do not fertilize at the time of planting.

Considerations

Concord grapes cannot support themselves, and they require stakes, trellises or some similar support structure. Wires strung between posts 16 to 20 feet apart are usually sufficient, with the top wire about 5 feet off the ground. Use strong wire and sturdy posts; a full yield of concord grapes is heavy.

Read more: When to Plant Concord Grapes | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_7976469_plant-concord-grapes.html#ixzz2S8htThGE

How to Grow Blue Concord Grapes

2013-04-30T19:07:00.000-07:00

After cultivating and experimenting for years, Ephraim Bull developed the Concord grape around 1850 in Concord, Massachusetts. The parent plant of all Concord grapes still grows at his home site today. The blue Concord grape (Vitis labrusca "Concord"), flavorful and juicy, is one of the most popular American grapes. It is a major source of commercial grape juice. Blue Concord grapes are easy to grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8. The vines are cold-tolerant and easier to grow than many European grape varieties. The homeowner who wants to grow Concord grapes does not need much land. Grapes can be planted next to fences, trellises and arbors. The grape vines are decorative, and can serve as a privacy screen in summer. Concord grapes are great eaten fresh, or made into juice, jams, jellies or wine.

Select a sunny site to grow Concord grape vines. The best sites are on south-facing slopes, on the south side of buildings, or on the south side of windbreaks.

Prepare the soil for planting. Weed the area. If the soil does not drain well, use a tiller to loosen the soil, and mix in sand, compost or animal manure. Add a top layer of compost or manure to improve the soil, even if you have no drainage problems.

Build a trellis or arbor if you don't have an existing structure to support the grape vines. To construct a simple trellis, set wooden posts into the ground, no more than 20 feet apart. String two or three horizontal wires (11- or 12-gauge galvanized wire) between the posts. Attach the lowest wire at least 30 inches above the ground.

Plan to plant Concord grape vines in early spring. Buy young potted plants or dormant bare-root vines.

Prepare the vines for planting. Cut off broken or damaged roots, and prune out multiple canes, leaving just one strong cane. Trim off all but two or three nodes, or buds, on the cane.

Dig holes 6 to 10 feet apart, or 4 feet apart if you want a denser look for an arbor. Make the holes wide enough so that the roots can spread out. Backfill the hole with soil, and insert a vertical stake next to each vine. Tie the vine to the stake so it will grow up to the trellis wire or other support.

Water the Concord grape vines regularly, once or twice a week, until they are established. Established vines have deep roots, but they still need water during hot weather or drought conditions.

Prune Concord grape vines annually during the dormant period from January through February.

Things You Will Need

Tiller
Sand
Compost or manure
Posts
Galvanized wire
Spade
Stakes
Tips

Don't prune off one-year old canes: They are the canes that will produce the grape-bearing shoots.

Once the vines are established, prune off up to 90 percent of new growth each year during the dormant period. Vigorous pruning will increase air circulation, which is essential for preventing fungal disease.

Only fertilize your grape vines if the soil is very poor. Too much fertilization results in green top growth and little fruit.

Blue Concord grapes have pits and are not suitable for making raisins.

Warnings

Blue Concord grapes are very sensitive to 2,4-D herbicide, which is used against broad-leaf weeds in lawns.
Concord grapes are susceptible to phylloxera, a small insect that feeds on grape roots, eventually killing the plants. Don't import vines from other areas or countries, because they may be infested with phylloxera or other pests and diseases.

from: homeguides.sfgate.com/grow-blue-concord-grapes-43292.html

Growing Concord Grapes from Seed

2013-04-23T22:34:00.001-07:00

Concord grapes are a native American variety and grow true to seed. However, they require cold stratification to germinate successfully. In cold areas with at least three to four months of soil temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, this is accomplished by planting seeds in the fall. In warmer climates, prepare the seeds in the fall for spring planting. Concord grapes are also easily propagated by grafting or by cuttings.

Things You'll Need
Vine-ripe concord grapes
Refrigerator with freezer
Paper towels
Diluted fungicide solution
Plastic bag
Small containers
Starter mix
Greenhouse or cold frame

Instructions

Remove seeds from vine-ripened grapes in the fall. Place the seeds in a glass of water and remove any seeds that float. Viable seeds will sink to the bottom of the glass.
Clean the seeds and place them on a towel to dry.
Moisten a paper towel with a diluted fungicide solution to prevent mold. Place the seeds on the paper towel and fold the towel over the seeds. Place the bundle in a plastic bag in the freezer.
Move the seeds to the refrigerator in December or January, three months before the planned planting date.
Plant the seeds in small containers of starter mix in the spring, at least three months after moving to the refrigerator. Poke a hole in the starter mix approximately 3/4 inch deep. Drop in one or two seeds per container and cover with soil. Water immediately.
Keep the pots protected in the greenhouse or cold frame until all danger of frost has passed. Keep the soil moist until the seeds sprout, then water whenever the soil dries.
Transplant the vines outdoors in the early summer once the soil has warmed. Choose a location with good drainage and rich soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Carefully remove the plant from the container and place in the hole at the same level it grew in the container. Back fill with soil, leaving a shallow trench around the outside of the root ball. Place the young vines approximately 8 feet apart along a trellis for support.
Water deeply by filling the trench and allowing it to soak in. Soaking the soil at least once a week during dry weather.

Weather Grapevine - Is It Necessary?

2013-04-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

The grapevine is always associated with a great look and feel. If you are thinking to change the look of your outdoor area of your garden then you can build a weathered grapevine on a Trellis and make it look beautiful. You would be able to present a great look to your home and would be able to bring home the beautiful grapevine. The grapevines grow on such structures where it is easier for them to attach. This is why usually the fences, trellises and trees or walls are considered to be best for growing them.

There is a great art associated with growing the weather grapevine on the frameworks. These grapevines keep on attaching themselves to the fences and they would become long and huge in few days. The weathered grapevine is best for your home as they would be there for all seasons. The grapevines would not be spoilt no matter what the season is. You would be able to grow the grapevines at your home on these fences and as they are the weather protected grapevine no change in weather would be able to harm that.

You can surely grow them in your garden and increase the beauty of your home. They are always there in all the weathers and seasons.

There are a number of ways through which you can create the structure of the trellis. For this purpose you can search on grapevine for all weathers and the ways to make the trellis over the internet. This would make you feel great and gives you great ideas of doing so. When you know all about grapevines and the trellis then growing them in your home becomes quite easy and simple. There are a few tips that you should follow in order to grow weather protected grapevine.

When you are thinking about building the structure of the trellis then you can go for many different types of materials such as iron, stainless steel, pre-treated wood, aluminum or the PVC pipe too. Some of the materials used for growing the weather grapevine are really cheap and affordable and you can easily improve the beauty and look of your garden with the help of the weathered grapevine and the trellis. It is now possible to get really wonderful solutions for improving the look of your home with paying only a small amount of money.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5344748

History Of Grapevines

2013-04-21T23:20:00.001-07:00

The first documentation of grapevines growing in the Americas was discovered in researching the logbook of navigator Giovanni de Verazzano, who reported in 1504 that a large "white grape" was vigorously growing at Cape Fear, North Carolina. The English explorer of the New World, Sir Walter Raleigh, confirmed in a letter to Arthur Barlowe in 1585, the discovery of a white grape (scuppernong), when he landed in coastal North Carolina.

The 1500's ancient discovery of native grapevines growing in America was followed by numerous Spanish settlements along the coast of the United States where introduced old world grapevines were planted alongside the native American grapevines. That interplanting resulted in natural crosses of hybrid grapevines, a blending of the characteristics of both types.
The French navigators were also exploring territories and lands surrounding Louisiana and were planting European grape vine varieties from the South of France, that also hybridized with native American grapevines. The English settlers established colonies in 1733 in Savannah, Georgia and Fort Frederica, on Saint Simon's Island, Georgia, under General James Oglethorpe, who was the first Governor of Georgia. These English colonies brought in seeds of grapes from Europe that were planted and grown in small farm vineyards. Those transplants intermixed with native grapevines that grew in woods nearby, and this intermixing resulted in new grape hybrids that were spread by the Indians and colonists everywhere. It is believed that these hybrids produced some selections such as Concord, Niagara, Catawba, and others that were identified as growing naturally in the woods by the great American explorer William Bartram, in his book, Travels, as Vitis labrusca by botanists today.

Henry Laurens, who served as President of the American Continental Congress after the year 1755, lived near Charleston, South Carolina, and introduced olive trees, lime trees, everbearing strawberries, ginger, red raspberry, and blue grapes into the colonies to be grown for food. Henry Laurens was a good friend of John and William Bartram, the famous father and son, botanist explorers, and author of the book, Travels, in 1773. From Southern France, Henry Laurens introduced "apples, pears, plums, the white chasselas grape (vine) which bore abundantly." Laurens claimed that he raised the fruit of the olive tree that he pickled and explained was "equal to those exported."

William Bartram wrote in his botanical book, Travels, in 1773, that he left Augusta on the way to Savannah, Georgia, and viewed a plantation growing grapes. "Vitis vinifera, for wine, Vitis corinthiaca, for Currants, Vitis allobrogia, for Raisins, olives, figs, Morus (mulberry), for feeding silkworms, Citrus aurantium, Citrus limon, Citrus verrucosa, the great sweet scented Citron."

When crossing the Saint John's River in Eastern Florida, Bartram wrote that the "grape vines in this place were astonishing to behold." He wrote that the grape was "small and ill tasted" but the strength and bulk of the vines could be imagined to pull the giant mighty trees down to Earth, but actually served to uphold the trees since the 12 inch wide vines twined up the trees and then "spread along their limbs, from tree to tree, throughout the forest." In Alabama, Bartram wrote that the trees "were entangled with grape vines (Vitis campestris) of a particular species; the bunches (racemes) of fruit were very large, as were the grapes that composed them, though yet green and not fully grown, but when ripe they were of various colors, and their juice sweet and rich." Bartram wrote that the Indians gathered, dried, and stored them (raisins) as provisions.

Bartram identified on page 327 of Travels, the European grape, Vitis vinifera,

"Which ramble and spread themselves over the shrubs and low trees in these situations" and the Indians assured Bartram that the grapes would "produce fruit affording on excellent juice; the grapes are of various colours when ripe, of the figure and about the size of the European wine grapes".

This grape that Bartram identified as European grape, Vitis vinifera, could very well have been a hybrid cross with an American native grapevine.

Because of the introduction of the European grapevines into America in the 1500's, there was ample time for intermixing of species, so that taxonomists today have great difficulty of positively identifying a grapevine growing in the woods as a true native. There is a high probability that wild grapevines contain genetic components of European inheritance

Prince Nursery of Flushing, N.Y. Was established as the first American Nursery in 1737 and Robert Prince advertised "Lisbon and Madeira grapevines for sale, Vitis vinifera." It was interesting to note reports that Prince was unsuccessful in attempts to grow vines of wine grapes (European) due to "his inability to control a deadly fungus." It is probably that Prince thought the problem was a fungus, but most likely the problem was a pest, phylloxera, that was a small lice-like creature that ate the roots of European grapevines, Vitis vinifera, and once American grapevines were exported to Europe, most of the vineyards growing there were destroyed.

George Washington built Mount Vernon as his home in Virginia in 1754, where he planted extensive orchards and vineyards from which he picked grapes and dried them into raisins. They were a "Staple at the dinner table" of George Washington.

Thomas Jefferson planted extensive European grapevines at his vineyard at Monticello, Va., in 1807, but like many other gardeners and wine makers, he failed when all the vines died of phylloxera, but he replaced those vines with the native American alternative grapevine, scuppernong, Vitis rotundifolia.

Perhaps no other group of plants is known better than the plant tribe of grapes. The grape is known more for its ability to transform into wine, than for its desirability as a table grape or a desert grape. Some grapes contain so much sugar inside the skin, that they will not ferment in on the vine after ripening, but will turn into a raisin. The unique aesthetic quality of the grape is the capacity for producing juice. The juice may be used fresh or fermented into famous vines with distinctive aromas and flavors increasing into quality with aging, some lasting for centuries. The Roman wine makers put floating olive oil in the wine bottles to prevent the wine from oxidizing and fermenting further into vinegar.

Luther Burbank, the great American hybridizer in his 8 volumes of Fruit Improvement, made grape selections by hybridizing over 100,000 species of American grapes with European grapes and other species that he imported from various countries. Burbank's inventive work on grapevines demonstrated that the characteristics of grape production, taste, and many other factors can show great variations, depending on climate, conditions, and soil changes. He imported muscadine vines, Vitis rotundifolia, from the Southeastern United States where they flourished, but these grapevines were not satisfactory growers when planted in California.

Burbank spent considerable effort in hybridizing American grape species with Tokay grapes from Hungary and the ancient Syrian grapevines of the Bible. Burbank also imported the Thompson's white seedless grapevines in 1880 into California to hybridize with American grapevine species. He found it was an extremely productive, light-colored, strong-growing, yellowish white grape "that grew well in California vineyards."

It is obvious that historically grapes were found growing in America by European explorers, who brought European grapevines and grape seeds with them, that were considered to be superior to American native grapevines. European grapevines had been interbred for centuries with certain genetic weaknesses appearing, when American native grapevines were introduced into Europe, and the European vines faced total extinction until it was learned that the European vines could be saved by being grafted on top of American grapevine root stocks. The genetic characteristics of European grapevines were hybridized naturally when planted along side American native grapevines into new commercial grape selections. American plant breeders have achieved monumental successes in producing new grapes that are specifically used as juice grapes, raisin grapes, wine grapes, table grapes, and pick-your-own selections.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/396274

Growing Concord Grapes Is Easier Because They Are Hardier

2013-04-21T22:48:00.002-07:00

In growing concord grapes you need to follow the basic rules of growing any other type of grapevine. The beauty of this vine, however, is that its very resilient and robust. It derived its name from the town of Concord which lies in the state of Massachusetts in America. A delicious table grape it has become so popular that its now grown in almost entire state in the USA.

This marble-sized, exquisitely sweet and succulent grape comes in a variety of colors from a beautifully plush purple to green, red and black. Popular for its look, perfect size, shape and taste and the ultimate decoration to any dinner table, the Concord grape manages to grow well even during droughts and hot sunshine.

Should this grape be grown in a Mediterranean climate, it will do just as well as its counterparts. However, simply being planted at the top of a sloping incline to provide drainage and given sufficient watering and sunshine means that it is being grown successfully in almost every state of America where this cultivar is thriving and being used mainly for the table.

This hardy grapevine is not too choosy about the condition of the soil it grows in, nevertheless it would be wise to provide it with the same benefits of any other sapling or vine when planting. Prepare the soil by breaking it up finely and adding compost to it. Keep the young shoots well watered while they send out their roots underground.

Like any other grapevine, the Concord vine will also need to be sprayed frequently to keep caterpillars and beetles at bay. When the grapes start appearing, they will be of interest to every bird in the area; so a good netting system put in place over the vineyard will provide the grapes with the protection they need.

This vine looks great over a garden trellis or in a pot in the courtyard but out in the vineyard, it is usually planted to enable climbing up and outwards from T-shaped forms, usually towering twelve foot high. Surrounding areas should be kept clean and eradicated of weeds and from litter blowing in, so as not to attract bugs. As much as a vine-covered trellis produces shade and beauty to a garden setting, so do these T-shaped vines covered in rich deep-green leaves add beauty across the vineyards.

From the time of planting of the young sapling vine to fruition, it takes four years for grapes to appear. This requires patience but is certainly well rewarded with no less than forty long years of productivity and an abundance of grapes weighing in at approximately twenty pounds per year. Pruning must be done to enhance the quality of the vines and is best handled by a specialist in this field to be performed when leaves drop off the vines. The cuttings can be used for propagating new plants.

In growing Concord grapes, you will know when the grape is ready for picking just by tasting it. It should be succulent and sweet. If is still a bit hard or sour, it is best left on the vine to complete its maturity as grapes do not continue to ripen once picked. Stop watering the vines approximately two weeks before harvesting and you should be rewarded with exquisite bunches of gorgeous tasty grapes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5147115

Important Factors in Deciding on Your Wine Making Grape

2013-04-15T21:06:00.003-07:00

Today, you will learn about different varieties of wine making grape, how to assess their suitability for your vineyard climate and soil type, and the best trellis structures for them. The most common commercial wine grape variety in the world is the Vitis vinifera species. In North America, the V. labrusca is widely cultivated and to a lesser extent, the V. rotundifolia.

The V. vinifera is a fairly hardy species that likes mild winters and long, hot growing seasons. This species requires soil pH of about 6.5. Well-known varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling.
Popular in Europe, this cultivar has an upright growth habit, making an upward vertical shoot positioning trellis system the most suitable. Shoots are positioned vertically upward through a set of catch wires as they grow from a mid- or low-wire cordon or cane. The Concord grape, which is of the V. labrusca species, is a cold climate grape.

It can withstand severe winters, as well as late spring and early fall frosts to minus 15 degrees F. Concord is tolerant of a wide range of soil types. In North America, it is cultivated in the northern growing regions such as Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, the Finger Lakes District of New York, South Western Michigan and the Yakima Valley in Washington. It is quite versatile, being well known for making sweet wines, jellies and juices, and even as a table grape! However, it has a poor reputation for making dry wines due to the muskiness of the Concord grape. How to successfully produce a great dry wine from this variety involves tending the vines with care to avoid over-cropping and allowing the fruit to ripen well before harvesting this grape. How to get the best yield and quality of Concord grapes is a question asked by many growers. A bi-lateral cordon training system with a vertical trellis and the Geneva Double Curtain systems have been used with good successes as this vine has a trailing growth habit.

Another species is the V. rotundifolia (muscadine), a native of South Eastern United States. This species enjoys warm, humid conditions and is a very popular Florida grape. How to improve yield is a common question, as this grape grows in very small clusters. The vines must get full sun for most of the day during the growing season to maximize fruit set and production. Fruity flavored wines are produced from this grape. How to prevent plant failure is another problem faced by growers, as muscadines is very unforgiving of wet feet. They are not fussy about the type of soil so long as drainage is good. The ideal soil pH is between 5.8 and 6.5. This vine has a trailing growth habit and can produce between 35 and 60 pounds of fruit per vine.

A sturdy trellis is essential. A high trellis cordon system would work, although using the Geneva Double Curtain or a high bilateral cordon will support heavier crops. While matching the vine variety to the climate of your location is a major determinant for the success of your grape growing effort, choosing the correct trellis support system influences the yield and quality of the grapes you produce. Of course, other vineyard practices such as training and pruning, canopy management, irrigation, weed and disease control and pest management all interact together to affect your vineyard's final yield and quality. I will write more on these topics in the near future. In the meantime if you would like some further information on wine making then visit my website. Click on the link below to take you there

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2190241

The Power of Growing Concord Grapes

2013-04-15T20:57:00.002-07:00

One of the most recognizable flavors in the world is the taste of the Concord grape. The aroma, as well, is easy to distinguish, and makes sitting under an arbor of ripe Concords an experience for the senses like no other! Because of its tart, robust flavor, this grape is widely used for products such as jellies, juices and candies. Although it is also used somewhat for making wine, the concord grape is primarily grown as a table grape and fresh fruit product. Other seedless varieties of grapes are becoming more popular for eating, however. Concords account for about ten percent of the nation's overall grape production, and are one of the most popular varieties of grape for home growers. And surprisingly, growing concord grapes is not as difficult as one might think.

In the Beginning

Concord grapes were developed in Concord, Massachusetts, and released to the public in 1854 by Ephraim Bull. Immediately well-received for not only the flavor, but also their hardiness in extreme climates, the business of growing concord grapes spread quickly. Shortly after its introduction, the Concord was juiced and bottled, by none other than Dr. Welch, who revolutionized fresh fruit preservation. Today, concord grapes are not only popular in commercial ventures, but also in home vineyards and gardens, providing a grape that is delicious and nutritious at the same time.

Getting started

If you intend to succeed at growing concord grapes in your own garden, you should follow some guidelines. First, plant your vines in a location that provides good drainage, ample sunshine and minimal wind. These grapes are especially susceptible to Black Leaf disease, so sun exposure and good air circulation are critical. Be sure to adhere to the steps required to attain a soil with the proper nutrient levels for the cultivar you are growing. Furthermore, be sure your support for the grape vines is sufficient, in the way of a trellis or arbor, remembering that it will take about 3 years before your plants produce a crop. But once they do start to provide grapes, you can expect many, many years of harvest. Starting from seeds is not the recommended procedure, but rather you want to get some stock already started from a vineyard, nursery or grape stock service.

Consistent maintenance

Growing concord grapes in your yard can be very enjoyable, but it also takes dedicated, consistent work, as well. Pruning, weed and pest management are the main necessities, but water, soil, sun and wind considerations factor in too. Learn the proper techniques for pruning, because it is vital to the outcome. Don't forget that it takes a few years growth on a grape-vine before any fruit is produced, so if you prune too much, the plant will have to constantly start over with shoots old enough to bear a crop. On the other hand, if you don't prune enough, the plant will be so overwhelmed, you will eventually end up with a lot of small, sour grapes. Attention to soil content, erosion, cover crops and weed control are also important. Visual inspection on a regular basis for signs of pest invasion is a good practice to establish too.

Sweet Success

The hard work and time you devote to growing concord grapes will be returned to you with a successful harvest. Be sure you wait until the fruit is fully ripe, however, before picking. The color will be done changing before the grapes have completely ripened, so the best way to determine if they are ready for picking is to taste them. If they are not ripe, they will be sour, and probably not very large. Give them some sun, water and a little more time, and you will have a harvest to enjoy very soon!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5079735

Essentials for Growing Concord Grapes

2013-04-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Growing concord grapes is not as hard as you may think, and finding the seeds can be found just about anywhere. It's named after a city in Massachusetts called Concord, and this type of grape does require some care and pruning. They can also be seen growing in the wild. These grapes have a tart taste to them, and make an excellent grape juice that is known to be great for the heart. When growing a concord grape, it can be rather easy. Here are a few things to keep in mind when growing them, and a few simple things to do to grow them.

Vine or Seed

When choosing to grow concord grapes, you should determine whether you want to begin from scratch with seeds, or whether you want to buy a vine and begin growing with that. No matter what method you choose, both are great ways to begin growing concord grapes and produce your vineyard.

Soil that's Good

When beginning your Concord grape crop, the soil is going to have to be black and rich. The vines are going to love the compost as well as the mulch. They are also going to rejuvenate the most in an adequate amount of sunlight. There can never be too much of it either.

Trellis or Wall

You are also going to have to determine whether your Concord grapes are going to grow on a wall or whether you want them on a trellis. Vines are going to need good support and structure in order to grow successful. A trellis can be purchased or you can make your own. However, a wall can do the trick as well.

Pruning

During the spring and winter months, you are going to have to prune your vines. During the previous years, new grapes grow, and you should be careful and not cut off some of the new stuff as the vines thrive from this. Growing Concord grapes can be good as it's a way of producing wines, jams, and grape juices. There are several delicious recipes that call for this type of grape as well.

Where to Plant

When you are trying to determine where to plant your Concord grape vines, keep in mind drainage. You need to plant the vines somewhere that will allow for drainage, and this can be determined after a lot of rain. Make sure there is no standing water, as this is a sign of a poor area. Slopes and hills are great places to plant your crop.

Prepare the Area

Once you have determined where you are going to grow your Concord grapes, remove all weeds, rocks, and other things in the way to ensure proper soil and other elements are present.

Also, make sure that you keep your plants fertilized. Do this after about 2 weeks of being planted. You can use compost, and this should do what you need it to do just perfectly.

These are just a few of the many things to keep in mind and to consider when growing Concord grapes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5336233

How Many Calories Are in Grapes?

2013-02-13T23:47:00.000-08:00

Grapes are a flavorful, healthy snack. You can have one cup (160 grams) and consume only 110 calories in grapes. This fruit offers various nutritional factors. They grow in clusters of 15 to 300 in various colors of yellow, green, orange, pink, dark blue, black and crimson. Grapes can be eaten fresh or frozen, made into juice or wine, processed into jams or dried to form raisins. The two main types of grapes are seeded or seedless. Grapes are classified into table or wine grapes. Some of the more popular brands are Thompsons, Perlettes, Red Flames, Monnukas, Concord and Ruby.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Facts

The biggest health benefit that grapes can offer is from the natural antioxidants, polyphenols, responsible for preventing harmful cholesterol build-up. This harmful build-up could cause atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke and high cholesterol levels. Ellagic acid, a flavonoid that has been found to help fight cancer, is also found in grapes. The most popular benefit of this fruit is the effectiveness of easing constipation. Grapes are a natural laxative food. Another important factor for the digestive system the grapes can battle is indigestion. They help relieve indigestion and sooth irritation in the stomach. For those with kidney disorders, this super fruit also reduces uric acid in urine, therefore keeping your kidneys from having to work so hard.

Grapes made into juice also hold ample health benefits. Studies show that drinking grape juice regularly helps with brain health and delays neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Data also supports that grape juice also protects healthy breast cells, reduces mammary tumor size and number of tumors found. As a home remedy, people have been known to use grape juice to cure migraine headaches. (Tip: For a migraine, ripe grape juice should be drunk in the morning, without diluting with water.) Light/white grape juice helps put iron content back into the body, ultimately preventing fatigue, boosting your energy. In 8 fl. Oz. (240 grams), there are 170 calories in purple grape juice and 140 calories in white grape juice.

How to Store

Before storing fresh grapes, remove any spoiled or bruised fruit. Do not wash grapes prior to storing. Place the grapes in a plastic bag in the crisper of the refrigerator. Fresh grapes will be good for approximately one week. Wash grapes prior to serving.

To freeze grapes, rinse them thoroughly, then lay out to dry completely (should only take a few minutes). Spread them out on a piece of wax paper on a cookie sheet and place them in the freezer. Check the grapes every half hour until they are frozen, then place in a zip-lock bag. Keep the grapes in the freezer until ready to serve. They will hold their flavor for approximately a week.

Healthy Recipe

Salad

Ingredients:

1 pound seedless green grapes
1 pound seedless red grapes
8 oz. package of (lowfat) cream cheese, whipped
6 oz. fat free frozen whipped cream

Directions:
In a medium bowl, mix together the whipped cream and cream cheese. Stir in grapes. Chill for 30 minutes, and then serve.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7220440

Tips For Successfully Planting And Growing Grapes

2013-02-01T23:33:00.000-08:00

The ancient Egyptians enjoyed grapes just as much as modern people do. In fact, archaeological evidence suggests that they depended on grapes for one of their sources of food and wine. This evidence can be found in the ancient people's artwork, which depicts grapes being used. Like the ancient Egyptians, modern people follow specific procedures for planting and growing grapes.

Not every climate can support the growing of grapes, however. Some kinds of the fruit are so delicate that they need certain types of soil for growing. These fragile grapes include many variety of wine grapes.

The fruit is rich in Vitamin C and dietitians have identified grapes as part of a healthy diet. For that reason, many professional and amateur growers alike choose grapes as a desired crop. Before planting, a person should know what kind of soil they have in their yards or fields. Knowing the soil's acidity and mineral content can better assure a healthy crop. Most nurseries and lawn and garden stores have horticulturists on staff that can test samples of soil for gardeners.

Grapes do not produce berries on their first year of planting. They wait until the second year and every year thereafter before bearing fruit. The first season allows a plant to take root and for it to absorb vital nutrients from the soil and fertilizers, if any are spread on the ground.

Plants should be given several feet of space between them so each plant has a chance to thrive. Placing trellises around the plants allows vines to spread and climb, thus allowing for a more vital crop.

Most grape jams and jellies sold in grocery stores are made from Concord grapes, which feature a sweet flavor and dark purple complexion. Other varieties of grapes include Charbono, which can be found in the wine country of Northern California and in Argentina. Table grapes such as those found in grocery store's produce departments include varieties that sport green, red, blue, and purple colors. Green and red grapes are favorites for table grapes and for snacking.

Grape plants should be given direct exposure to sunlight as much as possible. It is not uncommon to see professional growers plant their crops on hillsides that are exposed to the light of the rising morning sun. Growers should also prune their plants to eliminate bind weed and other vegetation that can starve a plant and kill it.

Despite the best care given by the grower, grape plants can become infected with fungus. Among these fungi are mildew and mold, the most common infectious agent among these plants. This disease can be eliminated by the spraying of fungicide, which can be bought at most commercial lawn and garden stores and nurseries. Similarly, birds can infest a vineyard and cause significant damage to a crop. Birds can be stopped by the placement of mesh or cloth aimed at halting their flight into the vineyard. Birds enjoy the taste and juiciness of grapes. As such, they frequently challenge growers for the fruit of the plants. Taking these precautions will allow for successfully planting and growing grapes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5154454