1 gallon Merlot grape plant - Bordeaux's most planted grape variety. Medium-sized, round, bluish-black fruits known for smooth texture. Grows in zones 7-10.
Merlot Grape Plant
Merlot grape plants are one of the most popular grape varieties in the world, known for their rich flavor and versatility. They are used to produce a wide range of wines, from red blends to varietal Merlots. Merlot grape plants are relatively easy to grow, but they do require some care and attention to produce high-quality fruit.
Here are some tips for growing Merlot grape plants:
- Choose a planting site that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
- Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Water regularly, especially during the first growing season.
- Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain the shape of the plant.
Merlot grape plants are susceptible to a number of diseases and pests, so it is important to monitor them regularly and take steps to prevent and control any problems. Some common pests and diseases to be aware of include:
- Powdery mildew
- Downy mildew
- Botrytis bunch rot
- Grape leafhoppers
- Grape phylloxera
If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, it is important to identify the problem and take appropriate steps to control it. There are a number of organic and conventional pesticides and fungicides available.
Merlot grape plants typically begin to produce fruit in 3-5 years. Once the plants are established, they can produce a bountiful harvest of grapes for many years to come.
Here are some tips for harvesting and processing Merlot grapes:
- Harvest the grapes when they are ripe. This is typically in late September or early October in the Northern Hemisphere.
- The grapes are ripe when they are a deep purple color and have a sweet, juicy flavor.
- To harvest the grapes, simply cut the bunches from the vine.
- Once the grapes are harvested, they can be processed immediately or stored for later use.
- To process the grapes, they can be crushed and destemmed. The crushed grapes can then be fermented to produce wine.
Merlot grapes can also be used to make juice, jam, and other products.
With proper care and attention, Merlot grape plants can thrive for many years and provide you with a delicious and rewarding crop of grapes.
Note: The plant is shipped in its pot, firmly secured with several layers of clear tape, thereby avoiding any shuffling and moving during transit. The plant reaches you with minimal damage- very safe and secure. We have been shipping plants like this for several years (plant are sometimes shipped in smaller pots for safety and ease of shipping). Most plants go dormant in fall and winter and will lose most of their leaves - looking dead and dry - very normal. They will flush out in spring.
We cannot send ship some plants and some sizes to California due to restrictions placed by department of agriculture.
Growing Zones: 4-8 outdoors
| Mature Height: | 3-6 ft. |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun |
| Mature Width: | 3-6 ft. |
| Botanical Name: | Vaccinium 'Sweetheart' |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Harvest Time: | June-September |
| Year to Bear: | Can Fruit the 1st Year! |
