Concord Grape Vines

Concord Grapes

Concord is a classic American grape variety celebrated for its bold, sweet-tart flavor and versatility. Its deep blue to purple berries are perfect for fresh eating, making juices, jellies, pies, and wines. This hardy and productive grape vine is a favorite among home gardeners, small-scale growers, and hobby winemakers thanks to its reliable yields and strong growth.

The vigorous vines have a trailing growth habit and produce medium to large clusters of flavorful berries each season. Concord grapes are well-adapted to a wide range of climates and are known for their consistent fruiting and hardiness.

Mature Size: 6–8 ft. high (with trellis support)
Spacing: 6–8 ft. apart
Harvest Season: Late summer (typically August–September)
Growth Habit: Deciduous, vigorous, trailing vines

Growing Information

USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun Exposure: Full sun required (6–8+ hours daily) for best fruit quality
Soil Type: Well-drained loamy or sandy soil
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0 ideal)

Watering

Give 1-2 inches of water a week particularly during flowering, fruit set, and berry development. Water deeply once or twice weekly rather than frequent shallow watering. Avoid standing water, as grapes do not tolerate soggy soil. Mulching can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

Fertilizing

Feed vines to encourage strong cane growth and heavy fruit production:

• Early Spring (before bud break): Apply a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 at 1 cup per vine, spreading evenly around the base but 12–18 inches from the crown, and water thoroughly.

• Mid-Spring (after fruit set): Apply ½ cup per vine to support berry development and strong cane growth.

Compost or well-aged manure can also be incorporated into the soil. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote leafy growth over fruit.

Pruning

Concord grapes produce fruit on one-year-old wood (canes from the previous season).

• Winter Pruning (dormant season): Remove weak, damaged, or overcrowded canes. Select 4–6 healthy canes per vine and cut back to 8–12 buds each.

• Summer Pruning (optional): Remove vigorous lateral shoots that shade fruit clusters, improve airflow, and reduce disease risk.

A sturdy trellis or support system is essential for proper growth, maximizing sunlight exposure, and making harvest easier.

Harvesting

Concord grapes typically ripen in late summer. Berries are ready to pick when they are deep blue to purple, firm, and easily separate from the stem. Harvest every few days during peak season to enjoy maximum sweetness and quality. Concord grapes are versatile: they can be eaten fresh, made into juice or jelly, baked into pies, or fermented into wine.

Propagation

Concord grapes are typically propagated by cuttings:

1. During dormancy (late fall to early spring), select a healthy cane from the previous season, about pencil-thick.

2. Cut into 8–12 inch sections with at least 3–4 buds each.

3. Plant vertically in well-drained soil or containers, with the buds facing upwards, covering at least 2 buds with 1–2 inches of soil.

4. Keep soil lightly moist until shoots emerge, then transplant established plants to their permanent location.