Planting Grapes

I had to replace two of my grapevines this year. I chose a Thompson red seedless and a green seedless when I went to my local feed store for more layer pellets. It is always a treat to go to Parksley Livestock. Whenever I stop by there is always something new to see and this time it was a great selection of vining fruits. The best part of shopping there is that they make you feel welcome. No sooner than I open the door I hear them say, "Hello, Mrs. Kio. How are you today?" My purchases are always loaded into the van for me. In this high tech, fast paced, superstore world it is nice that there is still a place where someone can go to shop and feel that they are welcome and special. I hope that you all have a store near you that brings a smile to your face.

Well, more about the grapes. I opened the bare root containers upon returning home and then soaked them over night in a five gallon bucket of water. When I checked the next afternoon, these new plants had soaked up 2/3 of all that water. My husband and I then planted them near their respective bamboo posts in the grape arbor, making certain to spread their roots evenly. I gave them a thorough watering and that's it. One of the best things about grapes is how easy they are to grow even with little care. I have often been amazed as I ride past an abandoned home, which hasn't had a family in residence for probably two decades or more, to see clusters of grapes swinging in the breeze from an overgrown vine. I hope that my grapes will be as prosperous for many years to come.