Habitat & Geography
The
Vitis labrusca variety of grapevine is native to the
eastern half of the United States. There are many factors that
Vitis labrusca needs present in order to thrive. It
will be found where there is full sun, a mild winter with
minimum spring and winter frosts, and the soil is well drained.
The temperature during the winter months when grapevines are dormant is
one of the biggest factors for where Vitis labrusca or any other
kind of grape can survive. Luckily Vitis labrusca has become much
more winter hardy, but they still will have a though time if the
temperatures drop below -15 F during the winter months for a very long time.
It is also important to try to avoid fall and spring frosts when the plant
is just going into dormancy or coming out. When buds freeze, the yield of
the vine for that year will be lowered. Places that are elevated relative
to surrounding areas are usually places that will avoid frost, as well as on
gentle slopes. This Is because cold air normally goes downward. If the plants
are elevated and at a slight slant, the cold air will want to drain down to
a place that is lower than where the vines are located.
Grapevines, including Vitis labrusca, are able to grow in many
different types of soils as long as it provides one thing, proper drainage.
Vines that are grown in soil that is constantly wet will be unable to extend
their roots much further than two feet below the surface. In better drained
areas, the root system can reach down as far as 10 feet. The constant
dampness around the roots is also a very good breeding ground for bacteria,
fungi, and other potential problems.
