

Using a turnbuckle or similar device to attach the wire to the post at one end can allow for adjusting the tension of the wire. Thread the wire through the staples, making sure the wire can still move side to side.


Pound fencing staples into the windward side of the posts at the desired heights, leaving a space large enough to allow the wire to pass through. The number of wires you use will vary by the training system. 9 or 10 gauge, high tensile) to support the weight of the vine. Place inline posts about 20 to 25 feet apart. Trellis posts should be treated wood (metal posts will also work, but wire attachment is more difficult) and need to be long enough to be firmly anchored and still leave around 6 feet above the ground. 1) or posts with a cross bar at the top with two to four lines of wire running between the horizontal cross bars. Grape trellises are typically either single posts in a line connected by one to four lines of wire (Fig. It is best to choose and construct your trellis before planting. Chain-link or similar styled fence can present unnecessary challenges as the canes become intertwined in the fencing material making them particularly difficult to remove during pruning. However, it is important to consider the challenges of pruning when selecting the type of support to use. This can be in the form of a trellis, arbor, or possibly a fence. Trellis Constructionįor most training systems, grape vines must have support. Once you know what type of grape you will be planting and have selected a suitable place on your property, it is time to consider your trellising system and how you will train your grape vine. See the companion fact sheet Grape Varieties for Utah for a list of varieties that can be grown in Utah. Next, select the grape variety you would like to grow, paying attention to your climate as well as your desired use of the fruit. The companion fact sheet Grape Vine Management is a helpful resource for understanding what is needed for success. First, familiarize yourself with what is needed for grape vine management as well as planting basics.

However, without attention to detail your grape vine may not be very fruitful or long lasting. It can be tempting to simply buy a grape vine and plant it somewhere in the yard with visions of delicious grapes in your future. Planning is one of the most important steps for successfully growing grapes. Other grape systems can be used successfully, but for simplicity only these two systems are discussed here. Both systems work well for Utah home growers. This fact sheet details two common systems, the 4-cane single-trunk Kniffin system (cane pruned) and bilateral high cordon (spur pruned). The best system for your grape vine depends on the cultivar grown, the climate, soil fertility, and personal preference. There are many different types of training systems used for grape production throughout the world. This fact sheet discusses basic pruning information and introduces two common training methods suitable for the Utah home garden. With proper care and pruning they are longlived and productive plants. Grapes are a wonderful addition to the home garden.
