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| Picture from reader most likely sunburn on the berries |
Q. My husband and I attended your seminar earlier this year regarding growing grapes and making wine. It was very interesting and helpful. We have been growing the Thompson “tasteless” for about four years now and they are doing quite well, however, our second year wine grapes, Cabernet and Black Spanish, appear to have black rot according to the internet pictures. Can you tell me if this year’s crop can be saved?
A. We don’t have this disease west of the Mississippi to my knowledge. That is an East Coast grape disease problem. We have very few grape disease problems in our climate due to our very low humidity and geographical isolation. It is more likely to be sunburn. From the picture you sent me the discoloration is typical of sunburn and it seems to be facing the sides toward the sun.
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| Grape trellis with parallel catchwires on the top to “catch” the new growth and provide shade to the berries |
Grapes berries usually turn color (called veraison) in July through September depending on the variety being grown. Most of our wine grapes are ready for harvest in late July and into most of August. Veraison will also turn the berry a different color as it spreads through the berries but from your picture this is not what I am seeing.
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| Our wine grapes entering into veraison at 115F (46C) daytime temps |
Not all the grapes will be turning color at the same time nor will bunches be ready for harvest all turn at the same time. In the extreme heat of July and August color development can be very spotty through the bunches with some much further along than others.
I have attached a picture of our wine grapes entering into veraison with some berries totally dark while others are still green and yet others turning color.