Backyard Garden: Grapes
This garden demonstrates growing three varieties of grapes for Northeast Kansas: Beta, Catawba, and Mars.
Points of Interest:
Types of Grapes grown:
- The Beta and Catawba varieties are red grapes with seeds and can be used for making jams, jellies and juices. The Catawba variety is also a wine grape.
- The Mars variety is a blue, seedless table grape.
- Two trellis systems are used:
- The Cordon High Wire trellis is used for the Beta and Catawba grapes.
- The Modified Munson trellis is used for the Mars grapes.
- A drip irrigation system is installed on the trellises.
Tips:
- Pruning of the grape vines is done in late February or early March.
- Pruning promotes growth and fruit production.
- Black rot is a disease that attacks the fruit. Spraying with a fungicide is necessary throughout the season to prevent the disease.
- Japanese beetles love the grape vines and will destroy them if left unabated. A special netting has been purchased for covering the vines during the time the beetles are present.
- Grape vines like about an inch of water each week during the growing season.
- Harvesting of the grapes usually takes place in late July and August.
Garden Address
35230 W 135th St
Olathe, KS 66061
Master Gardeners are available to answer questions and provide tours while they work the gardens Wednesday mornings, March to October. To schedule a visit on another day (M-F), please contact us at bygjocoemg@gmail.com
Have questions? The Garden Hotline is staffed by trained EMG volunteers and Extension staff who will assist you with questions.
Phone: (913) 715-7050
Email: garden.help@jocogov.org
