Grapes
As part of the Northern Grapes Project, we collaborate with eleven other universities and private growers across the northern tier of the United States. The project goals are to enhance and support growth and development of the grape and wine industry through a coordinated research and outreach effort focused on varietal performance, specific viticulture and winemaking practices, and marketing/consumer studies.
Studies and results from the first two years are available online...
Grape Variety Trial
The small fruit production project was initiated in 2003, with the Department of Plant Sciences at NDSU, to evaluate grape varieties for the winemaking industry. At that time, sixteen varieties of grapes were being evaluated for winter hardiness. At the present, twenty-two varieties are under evaluation.
Depth of Planting Study
In 2005, a depth of planting study was initiated to address whole plant survival of the cold, northern winters. The study looks at two varieties of grapes, Louise Swenson and St. Croix, planted at three different depths; 1, 2, and 3 feet deep. In 2008, Louise Swenson was replaced with Edelweiss.
Irrigation Study
In 2008, in an effort to make recommendations for growers in western North Dakota, an irrigation study was initiated. The study looks at different application rates and times to help growers decide an irrigation schedule that is right for them.
