Harvesting and storage
There are grape varieties available that ripen over the entire summer season beginning in mid-July
through early October. It is important to harvest as soon as possible after the fruit reaches full
maturity in order to avoid pest problems. Berries should be full size. They may or may not have full
color to be ripe. Ripeness of table grapes is determined by the amount of sugar in the fruit and
that varies from variety to variety. Color may be accentuated by removing the leaves around the cluster
prior to harvest.
Another indication of ripeness is the development of the external cuticle layer in the skin. Since
the cuticle of the fruit is easily subject to damage, handle carefully during harvest. Harvest
by cutting the fruit cluster rather than pulling from the vine. Cool it rapidly after harvest. For
longer
term storage, keep at 32° F or below but don't allow grapes to freeze. Don't allow the berries to
be wet before storing. Unripe grapes will not ripen in storage. |
Fruit
cluster at harvest time |
