Grape ,Pearl River/Harvest:August-September

The 'Pearl River' grape has a complex aroma with full flavor and high sugars averaging 24'Brix. This particular cultivar is classified as a table grape but is also used in Austria to make award winning speciality wines. This is a very productive cultivar which bears an abundance of uniform " V " shaped fruit clusters in August. For best results, locate in full sun exposure. Approximately one year after planting, the root system will have been established in the ground and the 'Pearl River' should become somewhat drought tolerant. On that note, it is a good idea to reduce the volume and/or frequency of water applications soon after fruit set and throughout the ripening period. This reduction in watering helps keep fungal problems at bay, reduces fruit split and allows the grape to reach peak flavor. The best way to prune this grape is to allow only two main horizontal branches to grow in opposite directions. These permanent branches are called cordons and should form a "T" shape. These branches can be supported using a chainlink fence or basic wire trellis. Another attractive display can be obtained by growing this grape onto a pergola allowing the bunches of fruit to hang like edible chandeliers. In December prune back all of the previous season's growth to two or three buds. This is called "Spur" pruning. During the first two years of growth, feed the grape a balanced fertilizer from March to October. Afterwards, only one application of fertilizer in February is all that is needed. It is a good idea to supplement feed powdered Gypsum during winter months. If you wanted to try growing grapes for the first time and had space for only one selection, I highly recommend the ' Pearl River '. Available in 2 and 5 gallon sizes.