Grapevine
Viticulture is one of the oldest agricultural practices: Vitis plant fossils have been found in deposits dating back 66 million years.
Common grapevine is one of humanity's oldest fruit crops, accompanying civilisation for more than six thousand years. This deciduous climbing vine originates from the Mediterranean and Transcaucasia but is now distributed across the globe. Thanks to its undemanding nature and versatility, grapevine has become a symbol of many winemaking traditions — from French Burgundy to Ukrainian Crimea and the historic estates of Odesa.
Outwardly, grapevine impresses with its vitality: flexible canes clothed in heart-shaped foliage that shifts through the seasons — from vibrant green in spring to golden-brown in autumn. Tiny flowers, which bloom from May to June, are gathered in cloudy panicles and attract honeybees. Each year brings clusters of berries — from white and pink to deep purple and black, depending on the variety. Among gardeners' favourites are 'Lydia', 'Isabella', 'Black Pearl' and the increasingly popular seedless varieties.
In the garden, grapevine serves both as a productive plant and a decorative element: it excellently screens pergolas, arches and house walls, creating cosy corners with natural shade. The vine combines well with other summer fruits — plum, peach and apricot — without competing for resources. Grapevine is easily trained through pruning, giving the gardener scope for creativity and experimentation.
Fascinatingly, fossil remains of the genus Vitis are known from the Miocene — a period 66 million years ago. This means grapevine as a genus survived ice ages, dinosaur extinction and global catastrophes. Such an ancient crop deserves your trust: it is time-tested and quite literally rooted in our civilisation. Plant grapevine in your garden — and you will not only harvest fruit but also connect with a many-thousand-year-old human tradition.
Grapevine — planting & location
Climbing vine requiring support and annual pruning.
How to water Grapevine
Stop watering 2–3 weeks before harvest!
Fertilizing and pruning: Grapevine
Short or long cane pruning