1.5 Months after the vines were planted

The grafted vines came on April 28, 2011 and we planted on May 1, 2011.  This is a trial planting with the primary goals to learn how to prune vines and learn more about the challenges of growing vines.  We planted 10 Cabernet Sauvignon and 10 Chambourcin vines.

We built a high cordon trellis system with 6 vines on one trellis (fence side) and 4 on another (hill vines). 

The Chamboucin grapes were very aggressive and grew the fastest. I would say within 2 weeks we had solid growth inside the grow tube. The Cabernet Sauvignon was a little slow to start and I didn't see growth until 1 month in and it was rapid the next 2 weeks, nearly catching up to the growth rate of the Chambourcin. 

Based on this, the Chambourcin seemed to grow better when the climate was a little cooler. The Cabernet took off once temps stayed 85' during the day.

I haven't noticed any signs of bugs/pest issues and the leaves seem (from my research) to show no signs of disease. Deer are becoming an issue around the property, eating landscaping. I may have to install a net deer fence on the back of the property as the vines continue to grow.

Here are pictures of the growth of the Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin vines 1.5 months since planting.

April 29, 2011: Vines arrives

May 1, 2011: Planting

June 12, 2011: Growth just under 3 feet .. almost popping out of grow tube

June 25, 2011: Growth exceeds 3 feet, out of grow tube now