Grape Harvest
Grapes
will turn color ("veraison") long before they are ripe. Season of harvest extends
from August through September. Grapes for table use can be harvested
as soon as they taste good. Grapes for wine are best harvested when
there is a good balance between sweet and tart tastes.
Birds may be a problem during harvest. Birds are
attracted to cultivars with small red or blue-black berries. The large
blue-black berries of Concord are generally not attractive to birds.
Use netting to protect the crop if birds are a problem.
Cut clusters off with grape shears or pruning shears
when ripe. It is easy to cut your fingers in dense foliage so it
might be a good idea to wear gloves. Grapes kept in the refrigerator
will last about two weeks or longer under good conditions.
