498 



GROWING GRAPES 



diversified, then some of this equipment may be used for other 

 crops, reducing the overhead on the vineyard. Pickers are 

 more easily secured for a sizable plantation, since longer em- 

 ployment is provided, than for a small one. The problem 

 cannot be resolved into a definite number of acres, but this 

 matter should receive very careful attention at the outset. 



2. Selecting the Location. Select a location subject to the 

 tempering infiuence of lake or river. The nature of such 

 infiuence upon the growing season and the temperature range 

 is well known. The grape seems especially responsive to it. 

 Shallow streams or ponds have little effect, the depth of the 

 water being an important consideration. The slope should be 

 toward the water. Steep grades complicate cultural opera- 

 tions and increase the cost thereof. 



Air drainage through and away from the vineyard is im- 

 portant in the control of many diseases and reduces the danger 

 from late spring and early fall frosts. 



In the southerly extensions of the industry the water in- 

 fluence is not such an important factor, but air drainage is a 

 primary consideration. 



3. Selecting the Soil. A good upland corn soil is well 

 adapted to grapes. Light loams of all kinds, with good 

 drainage, meet the requirements. Clay loams delay ripening of 

 nearly all fruits and in them the drainage factor is of especial 

 importance. Moderate fertility and moisture are necessary. 

 Since the vineyard will, under the proper conditions, occupy 

 the ground for years, it is not best to plant on naturally poor 

 eoil. On the whole, well-drained, gravelly loams, which are 

 friable and easy to work, and which v/arm up early in the 

 spring, make excellent soils for the grape. On such soils, 

 evenness of ripening, good yields, and grapes of good size, 

 color, flavor, and high sugar content may be expected. 



The growing of a tilled crop during the year previous to 

 planting is sound practice, since it tends to eliminate grass and 

 puts the soil in good condition for planting. 



