E D E L W E I S S

Above: 'Edelweiss' is a large clustered, white, seeded variety with good fresh eating quality. It should be picked early, in late August or early September in southern Minnesota. Winter mulching is recommended.

F R O N T E N A C

'Frontenac', the newest introduction from the U of M, was bred specifically for red wine production and is an important addition to Minnesota's expanding wine industry. It is the most hardy red-wine variety in Minnesota. The grapes have a high sugar and acid content at harvest, making a red wine that echoes the flavors of cherries and plums.

SUNLIGHT and high temperatures are needed to completely ripen grapes, so plant vines on a south-facing slope, or on the south side of a building or windbreak. They are best adapted to the southern half or two-thirds of Minnesota. Avoid sites with standing water and poor drainage, and add fertilizer based on soil test recommendations. Grapes require annual pruning. Hardy varieties are often pruned to four main canes with 40-60 buds per vine for table varieties, and 20-30 buds for wine varieties. Tender varieties requiring winter protection are pruned to a single trunk that can be removed from the trellis and protected on the ground over the winter.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Growing Grapes for Home Use, FO-1103

SWENSON RED

'Swenson Red' produces large, crisp, high quality table grapes. The vines need winter protection. Like 'Edelweiss,' this is a joint introduction from grape breeder Elmer Swenson and the U of M.