Growing Grapevines in Mississippi: A Home Vineyard Guide

Mississippi’s warm climate and long growing season provide an excellent environment for cultivating grapevines. Whether you’re looking to grow grapes for fresh eating, winemaking, or jellies and jams, selecting the right varieties and following best practices will help you establish a successful home vineyard. This guide covers everything you need to know about growing grapevines in Mississippi, from planting and soil requirements to pruning and harvesting.

Best Grape Varieties for Mississippi

Not all grape varieties thrive in Mississippi’s climate due to the high humidity and warm temperatures. However, several types of grapes grow exceptionally well:

Muscadine Grapes (Vitis rotundifolia) – These are the most common grapes grown in Mississippi due to their resistance to pests and diseases. Popular varieties include ‘Carlos’ (bronze), ‘Noble’ (black), and ‘Scuppernong’ (bronze).
American Grapes (Vitis labrusca) – Some cultivars of Concord and Niagara grapes can be grown in Mississippi, but they require more care to prevent disease.
Hybrid Grapes – Certain hybrid varieties, such as ‘Blanc Du Bois’ and ‘Champanel,’ perform well in southern climates and can be used for winemaking.

When to Plant Grapevines in Mississippi

The best time to plant grapevines in Mississippi is in late winter to early spring, typically between February and March. This allows the vines to establish roots before the heat of summer. Bare-root plants should be planted while they are still dormant, while potted plants can be planted later in the spring.

Best Soil for Grapevines

Grapevines thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Heavy clay soils should be amended with organic matter or sand to improve drainage. If your soil is too alkaline, applying sulfur can help lower the pH. Conducting a soil test before planting will help determine if any amendments are needed.

Sun Exposure and Location

Grapevines require full sun to produce high-quality fruit. Choose a planting location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. South- or west-facing slopes are ideal, as they provide good air circulation and drainage, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Constructing Supports for Grapevines

Grapevines require sturdy support structures to grow properly. There are several types of trellising systems suitable for home vineyards:

Single Wire Trellis – Ideal for Muscadine grapes, this system consists of a single wire stretched between posts about 5 to 6 feet above the ground.
Two-Wire Vertical Trellis – Useful for hybrid and American grapes, this system supports vines on two parallel wires at different heights.
Arbors or Pergolas – Great for ornamental vineyards, these structures allow vines to grow overhead and provide shade.

When setting up trellises, use durable materials such as pressure-treated wood or metal to ensure long-term stability.

Fertilizing Grapevines

Grapevines should be fertilized sparingly, as excessive nitrogen can promote excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit production. A balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 should be applied as follows:

First Year: Apply ¼ pound of fertilizer one month after planting, then repeat every 6 weeks through the first growing season.
Subsequent Years: Apply about 1 pound per vine in early spring before new growth begins.
Avoid Overfertilization: Too much nitrogen can increase disease susceptibility and delay fruiting.

Pruning Grapevines

Pruning is essential for maintaining healthy grapevines and maximizing fruit production. The best time to prune grapevines in Mississippi is late winter to early spring (January to March) before new growth begins. Here’s how to prune properly:

First Year: Focus on developing a strong root system and main trunk.
Second Year: Train the vine along the trellis, selecting the strongest canes to develop the structure.
Mature Vines: Remove about 90% of the previous year’s growth each winter, leaving only the canes that will produce fruit.

Harvesting Grapes

The harvest season for grapes in Mississippi typically falls between July and September, depending on the variety:

Muscadine Grapes: Ready for harvest from late August to early October. Berries ripen individually and should be picked when fully colored and slightly soft.
American and Hybrid Grapes: Generally harvested between July and September when they reach full color and develop a rich flavor.

Additional Tips for Home Vineyards

Disease and Pest Control: High humidity can lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and black rot. Regular pruning, good air circulation, and the use of fungicides when necessary can help prevent these problems.
Watering Needs: Established grapevines are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry spells, especially when fruit is developing.
Mulching: Applying mulch around the base of vines helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Bird and Animal Protection: Birds and deer are common grape pests. Use netting or fencing to protect your harvest.

Conclusion

Growing grapevines in Mississippi is a rewarding endeavor that requires careful planning and maintenance. By selecting the right varieties, providing proper support, and following best practices for planting, fertilizing, pruning, and harvesting, you can enjoy a bountiful home vineyard for years to come. With patience and dedication, your vines will produce delicious grapes that can be enjoyed fresh, in homemade wines, or as preserves.

I’ve planted grapes, but went with a Catawba variety as that’s what Lowe’s carried last year when I planted. Read up on Catawba grapes here, and go follow my vineyard progress here.