Some of you would have started harvesting the first of your summer grapes. They ripen quickly in the hot season, but the grapes may change colour earlier than fully ripened. Taste a grape or two from the bunch before harvesting.
The main problem during this time of year is birds. Cover the nearly ripe bunches with potato sacks or fruit bags.
Seedless grapes have seeds, but they are undeveloped. Seedless grapes may sometimes produce seeds when very young and under stressful conditions.
The size of the grape berries, bunches and yields per plant will increase as the age and size of the grapevine increases.
The flavour and sweetness of grapes will improve as the plant matures. Give the vines four to five years to judge their true potential.
Thinning grape bunches may produce larger bunches and berries.
Look out for fungal diseases in the vines, especially during the rainy season.
Keeping freshly harvested grapes in the vegetable/ fruit tray may enhance sweetness and further the ripening process.
Wine grapes may not be as sweet as table grapes.
What are your experiences with the grapes this season?
