There is an almost endless list of things you can do with grapes grown on your very own vine.
Wines being the obvious but don't forget there are jams, juices, baked goodies and of course, just eating them plain.
In order to grow healthy vines and produce good quality grapes there are a few prerequisites; pretty much every variety of vine require full sunlight, moderate amounts of water and well drained slightly acidic soil.
Your next consideration is your location and climate.
European and the western side of North America enjoy longer growing seasons as well as a moderate winter.
Central and eastern North America has a much shorter growing season.
Match the variety that best suits your region.
When starting out, plant the vine in early spring.
In colder climates, avoid planting in the fall to avoid heaving during the winter months that can damage the tender roots.
During the first year of growth, allow the vines to grow wild.
Only in its second year should you begin the pruning process.
Grape vines should only be pruned in the winter months or very early spring time before any buds begin to swell.
Grapes grow on year old wood and due to their weight, require support from stakes, trellises or an arbor.
During their first three years fertilizing is very important.
It is during this time that the roots are establishing themselves and the vine is growing stems.
Weeding is as simple as pulling them out by hand.
Do not use any type of weed control chemical or pesticide.
Remember, you will be eating the fruit! When the fruit begins to turn color sample it right off the vine.
If it is sour or too acidic, it is too early to harvest.
Keep an eye (and taste bud) open for when the fruit is sweet and less acidic.