Grape Trellis Usage & Guidelines

Like most vines, grapes need a grape trellis to grow properly. Without a trellis the vines are not strong enough to support themselves and the plant will not form properly without being trained.

The look and functionality of a grape trellis really just depends upon the person that constructed the trellis and the grape grower. A trellis can come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit your needs, and made from a variety of different materials. Some of the more common materials include iron, treated wood, stainless steel, aluminum, and PVC Pipe.

During your planning you should consider constructing the grape trellis's before you plant the vines. In colder climates a shorter trellis is typically built to better withstand winter weather and because it is easier to prepare the grape vine for winter dormancy. Larger trellis' are used in warmer weather, with post as large as 8 ft.

Also as part of your planning process you should determine exactly where the grape trellis will be positioned and where you will plant the vines. These are permanent structures and should therefore be designed and constructed to last. Cement the posts into the ground to ensure a trellis that will be around for the life of the grape vine. Posts can also be secured by using catch wires anchored to the ground or another much shorter post set in the ground next to your main post.

Sting two rows of steel wire between the posts. The first row runs along the bottom of the posts about three inches from the ground. The second wire should run along the top of the posts. Use a staple gun to staple the wires in place. When your vine is planted and it begins to grow it will grow up along the two main trellis wires with some coaxing on your part. You can use string or cloth to tie the vine to the wires. Using more wire to tie the shoot in place can sometimes damage the shoot.

Purchasing a trellis for your grapevine is also an option that a lot of grape growers explore when looking to grow a small crop of grapes. The investment is more but you options are open. Just make sure to have good planning and have taken careful measurements as to where you would like your trellis to be to ensure that you buy a trellis that is right for you.