Muscadine and Scuppernong grape vines are known for their sweet, rich flavor and Southern heat tolerance—but their first summer in the ground is a crucial time for getting them properly established. Without consistent care, these young vines may struggle to root or survive the heat.
Here are the top 5 things you should do to care for newly planted muscadine and scuppernong grapes during summer:
1. 💧 Keep Soil Moist with Deep Watering
Water is vital during the heat of summer:
- Water 2–3 times per week during the first 6–8 weeks
- Use deep watering at the base of the vine, not overhead
- Soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems work best
💡 Mix Soil Moist Transplant Crystals into the root zone when planting to help retain moisture.
2. 🌿 Mulch to Beat the Heat
Mulch offers multiple summer benefits:
- Helps maintain steady soil moisture and cool temperatures
- Suppresses weeds that compete for nutrients
- Gradually adds organic matter to the soil
Spread 2–3 inches of mulch around the base of each vine, keeping it away from the stem.
3. ☀️ Train Young Vines with Trellis Support
Muscadines and Scuppernongs are vigorous growers and need structure:
- Install a T-trellis, wire fence, or arbor for upward growth
- Tie new growth loosely to the support system to guide direction
🪴 Proper trellising improves airflow, sun exposure, and fruit quality down the road.
4. 🐛 Stay Ahead of Pests & Disease
Summer heat invites insect pressure and fungal issues:
- Watch for leaf spots, aphids, Japanese beetles, and powdery mildew
- Maintain airflow with correct spacing and training
- Use organic sprays or horticultural oils only when needed
🔍 Weekly inspections keep problems from getting out of control.
5. 🚫 Don’t Fertilize Too Late in Summer
Overfeeding can weaken vines before dormancy:
- Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers in midsummer or later
- If needed, use compost or slow-release formulas in early summer
🌿 Focus energy on root establishment, not excessive leafy growth.
🛒 Where to Buy Bare Root Muscadine & Scuppernong Vines?
Start your vineyard strong with healthy vines from Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC:
✅ Non-GMO bare root muscadine and scuppernong varieties ✅ Best prices and highest-quality root systems ✅ Fast shipping matched to your planting zone ✅ Free 1-Year Plantsurance™ Guarantee – store credit if your plant doesn’t survive 🛡️
At Ty Ty, it’s always zero stress and all success. 🍇
🌟 Final Thoughts
New muscadine and scuppernong vines need help getting through that first summer. With deep watering, smart support, and pest awareness, you’ll be harvesting sweet grapes in no time.
Shop the best selection of bare root grape vines today at Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC.
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