How to Grow Red Concord Grape
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Red Concord Grape
Vitis labrusca × Vitis vinifera
vineRed Concord grapes are a hybrid cultivar known for their deep red to dark purple color, sweet-tart flavor, and firm texture. They are commonly used for juice, jams, and fresh eating. These vigorous vines are hardy, disease-resistant, and well-suited to home gardens and small vineyards.
When should you plant Red Concord Grape in your zone?
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Example Red Concord Grape timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Red Concord Grape
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Red Concord Grape
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Red Concord Grape dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-8; thrives best in zones 5-7
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Establishment (Year 1)
12 monthsYoung vine develops root system and 2-4 strong canes; minimal or no fruit produced
Remove flower clusters to redirect energy to vine growth. Prune to 1-2 main canes. Install trellis or support system. Water regularly to establish deep roots.
Vegetative Growth (Years 2-3)
12-24 monthsVigorous cane growth with robust foliage; sparse flowering or light fruit set
Continue training vines on support structure. Prune lateral shoots to 2 buds. Remove fruit clusters in year 2 to strengthen vine structure. Maintain consistent moisture.
Flowering
2-3 weeks (late May to early June)Small, inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in late spring, typically in clusters opposite leaf buds
Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen. Ensure adequate potassium and phosphorus. Maintain consistent watering. Thin flower clusters if overcrowded.
Fruit Development & Veraison
8-10 weeks (late June through August)Small green berries form and gradually enlarge; berries begin color change from green to red then deep purple/red in mid-late summer
Monitor for pests and diseases. Thin fruit clusters to 1-2 per shoot for larger berries. Reduce watering slightly to concentrate sugars. Apply potassium-based fertilizer.
Harvest Ready
2-4 weeks (typically late August to September)Berries reach full deep red to dark purple color, are firm, and taste sweet-tart with minimal tartness
Check sugar content by taste testing. Harvest in morning when berries are cool. Use clean pruning shears to cut grape bunches. Handle gently to avoid bruising.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick early morning; use pheromone traps away from vines; apply neem oil or pyrethrin spray; encourage natural predators
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Plant on phylloxera-resistant rootstocks; monitor for galls on leaves and roots; no effective treatment once established; replant if necessary
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Ensure good air circulation through pruning; apply sulfur dust or sulfur-based fungicides; spray potassium bicarbonate; avoid overhead watering
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Remove infected berries immediately; prune for air circulation; apply fungicides (mancozeb, sulfur) every 10-14 days; destroy fallen leaves
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Apply fixed copper or sulfur-based fungicides; ensure good drainage; avoid overhead watering; remove affected leaves
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Spray water to dislodge; apply neem oil or miticide; introduce predatory mites; maintain consistent humidity
Uses
Fresh Eating & Juice
CulinaryRed Concord grapes are excellent for fresh snacking, with a pleasant sweet-tart balance and slip-skin that separates easily from the flesh. They are the classic variety used for Concord grape juice and jelly. [source]
Preserves & Jam
CulinaryHigh natural pectin content makes Red Concords ideal for homemade jams, jellies, and preserves without added pectin. The deep color and distinctive flavor create rich, flavorful spreads. [source]
Antioxidant & Heart Health
MedicinalRed Concord grapes contain resveratrol, anthocyanins, and other polyphenols associated with cardiovascular benefits and antioxidant properties. Grape juice has been studied for potential cholesterol and blood pressure benefits. [source]
Natural Food Coloring
HouseholdThe deep red pigments can be extracted and used as a natural food coloring for baked goods, beverages, and desserts. This provides a chemical-free alternative to artificial dyes. [source]
Bird & Pollinator Support
WildlifeGrape flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while mature fruit provides excellent food for songbirds and wildlife. Vines also provide shelter and nesting habitat. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Grapes do not ripen after harvest, so pick only fully mature clusters. Harvest when berries are deep red to dark purple, taste sweet-tart, and crush easily between fingers. Pick in early morning for best quality. Use sharp pruning shears to cut entire clusters. Mature vines typically produce 10-25 lbs of fruit annually. Grapes can be stored in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or frozen for later use.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Concord grapes were developed in Concord, Massachusetts in 1849 by Ephraim Wales Bull, who spent 20 years hybridizing wild native grapes to create this superior variety.
- 🌱 Red Concords have a unique 'slip-skin' characteristic—the skin separates easily from the flesh—which is why they are sometimes called 'slip-skin grapes,' distinguishing them from wine grapes.
- 🌱 A single mature Concord vine can live 40+ years and produce fruit for decades with proper care; some heirloom vines are over 100 years old.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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