The Grape Grower Lon Rombough

Grapes have always been an elusive crop for me. Coastal Florida is generally thought to be too hot and humid for ‘real’ grapes. Of course we do have native grapes but most are a bit strong for nibbling out of hand. With this in mind I was truly surprised at how much I enjoyed Lon’s book.

The reader can tell that not only is The Grape Grower written by someone with experience but by an author who can share what they have learned. Subtitled: A Guide to Organic Viticulture readers are presented with clear and concise information and methods – not preached at.

The opening three chapters; Structure of the Vine, Getting Started and Pruning and Training do much to prepare the prospective grower. While most seasoned rarefruiters can plant properly, gaining an understanding of vine structure as related to producing a healthy, fruiting plant is vital for this crop. I went back and reread the information on training and find that I comprehend the how and why involved in what has always been a mystery.

Following chapters on problems (disease, insect, birds…) prepare the grower for success. I found the disease information clear and it helped me to understand what is a complex subject. Fortunately many of the diseases are regional and there are an increasing number of resistant varieties of plants available.

The book finishes with information on propagation, varieties and species and specialized information for both cool and warm climates. There is also a chapter on breeding and a very useful glossary and index.

There are illustrations by Elayne Sears and some excellent photographs by the author. The Grape Grower, Winner of the 2003 award for "Best Talent In Writing" from the Garden Writer's Association.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is serious about growing grapes, be it one plant or many. If you buy through the link below the proceeds help us bring you more articles and reviews.

Rombaugh also provides a wealth of information on hardy but little-known grapes that are native to North America, and on a wide range of topics, including:

pruning neglected or overgrown vines
growing grapes on arbors and in greenhouses
controlling animal pests in the vineyard
bunch grapes and muscadine grapes for the South
winter protection, and how to increase the hardiness of grapes
creating your own new varieties