Growing
When you plant a Concord grape, you are bringing a piece of American agricultural history into your garden. These vigorous vines are known for their "foxy" aroma, a distinct, musky sweetness often described as having notes of strawberry, raspberry, or cotton candy. Because they are heavy climbers, provide a sturdy permanent structure, such as a heavy-duty trellis or arbor, to support the weight of the mature canes and the fruit load. As the vines grow, use their tendrils to help them navigate the support, and prune regularly to manage the growth habit and keep air moving through the canopy.
Keep your soil slightly acidic, ideally between a pH of 5.5 and 7.0, and well-drained to prevent waterlogged roots. The harvest is ready when the berries reach a deep, dark color and show the "slip-skin" characteristic of the species, where the skin slides away from the pulp when squeezed. Unlike many other fruits, Concord grapes do not continue to ripen once they are off the vine, so pick them only when they are fully mature. To maintain quality, store your harvest unwashed in a cool, dark cellar or the refrigerator. If you have a surplus, these grapes can be frozen or canned into preserves.
Plant Witch