A review of the best grape varieties and planting tips for Siberia

Features and cultivation systems

For a long time, gardeners faced various problems when attempting to grow Siberian grape varieties. Guidelines for growing grapes in Siberia for both beginners and experienced breeders have only recently become known and widespread. Among the most common problems were:

• the bushes could not withstand the harsh climate;
• frosts in autumn had a negative impact on summer growth;
• When the shelter was removed in the spring, unexpected frosts came, which deprived the harvest.

There was another reason, besides the plant diseases and those mentioned above, which was the lack of proper experience among the gardeners themselves. They didn't know how to grow grapes in Siberia to avoid the negative impact of frost.

But over time, two effective systems were developed and invented that allowed anyone to grow the Krasa Severa or Olga grapes in these climates. Successful planting and cultivation of seedlings in this environment was first achieved thanks to the efforts of agronomist V.K. Nedin. He achieved a good harvest by developing rules for proper planting and care of this type of plant.

At the time, grapes were a new crop to Siberia, but thanks to Nedin's work, they thrived in the region. His work led to the development of two systems for planting and growing grapes, as well as proper viticultural care.

The first system

After preparation, cuttings must be stored in frost-free areas. If this isn't possible, digging trenches is sufficient. Planting grapes in Siberia requires digging trenches 1 meter deep.

Plants are planted in deep holes in open ground, with the exception of areas where groundwater is too deep. Fertilizer is added to the bottom.

Pruning grapes in Siberia should be minimal. Like staking, pruning should be minimal during the summer months. August is acceptable. However, this should be done until spring frosts have passed. Pruning in the summer, especially in July, is not recommended, as this will impede growth. During severe frosts, cover the plant with plastic. Growing grapes in Siberia also requires autumn pruning. The load on buds and shoots should be twice as heavy as in southern regions.

When considering how to properly plant grapes in Siberia, it's also worth mentioning the important rule of fertilizing with this system. Given the climate, fertilizing is not necessary in this region, as the weather conditions and ambient temperatures make pests virtually nonexistent.

The second system

Another unique method for growing grapes in Siberia is the lack of need for grafting. Cuttings should be taken in the fall, and it's important that they reach the desired size. They are best stored in a cellar. Another option is to cover the grapes for the winter in Siberia with the "mother" vine.

If you plan to grow the grapes in black soil, digging a planting hole is not necessary. Otherwise, applying fertilizer and digging a hole 1 meter deep is necessary. Sibirkovy grapes, like other varieties suitable for growing in these climates, do not require fertilizing, spraying, or loosening the soil. Only weeding is required during cultivation. Pruning is done in late September.

Now you know how to plant grapes and how to grow grapes in Siberia. Now all that's left is to learn which varieties are best to choose and how to properly care for them.

The best winter-hardy varieties

In any case, it should be a variety characterized by frost resistance. Various varieties are suitable for growing grapes in Siberia. The best grape varieties for Siberia are the following:

• Muscat;
• Siberian Cherry Tree;
• Thumbelina;
• Mystery.

These are all early grape varieties for Siberia. If desired, you can grow mid-season and even late-ripening varieties. Otgadka, Sharov's Seedling, and Katyr are good early varieties. You can also try growing the Savraska White variety. Late-ripening varieties include Dubinushka and Obskoy.

Growing rules

There are a number of rules that must be followed to ensure normal plant growth and a good harvest. First and foremost, it's important to choose the right planting location and the optimal season.

Time and place of landing

If you want to grow this crop on your own plot, you can, but there are certain restrictions regarding site selection. In any case, try to avoid low-lying areas where frosts will be particularly severe. A south or southeast exposure is an excellent choice. Avoid planting grapes on north-facing slopes. Choose the driest and sunniest locations for successful cultivation.

As for planting time, the optimal season is when temperatures don't drop below 15°C (the second half of May). Choose either a cloudy day or the evening on a sunny day for planting.

Preparing and planting seedlings

To ensure successful cultivation and rapid growth, it's important to properly prepare the seedlings. It's best to use those that have successfully overwintered in a cellar. Soak them in a sodium humate solution for 24 hours. Then, dip them in a clay slurry and begin planting.

Further care

It's equally important to learn how to care for grapes in Siberia. Harsh conditions make care crucial for a good harvest and good fruiting. During the first year of growth, caring for grapes in Siberia has one key goal: growing two strong shoots. If the seedling initially had two vines, they should be pinched back to one bud in September.

Hardening

Considering the potential for grape diseases in such climates, it's important to harden off the plant. Greenhouse shelters are not recommended, as this will only weaken the plant. If you do, the bush simply won't survive the harsh winter.

Hardening should be aimed at preparing for frost.

Preparing for winter

Preparing grapes for winter in Siberia is extremely important. How should such plants be covered under these conditions? Covering grapes for the winter should be done when the ambient temperature is below 0 degrees Celsius.

How to cover grapes for the winter in Siberia? The best solution is regular film, which will provide the necessary warmth. It can be removed in April, when the sap begins to flow. Experienced gardeners use film greenhouses on arches for this purpose.

Video: "How to Plant Grapes in Siberia"

This video will teach you how to plant grapes in Siberia.