Weeds in first year vines should be controlled by hoeing out about a 3-foot circle around each vine. Protect the trunks with growth tubes, aluminum foil, or paper. Control weed growth in row middles with mowing. This will avoid danger of root pruning from disking and will help keep soil erosion in check. Water Requirements Muscadines are commonly grown in East Texas without irrigation, but low summer rainfall often limits fruit size and production of dryland vines.
Irrigation is essential for establishment of vines in years one, two, and three.
Irrigation requirements will vary depending upon the soil, vine vigor, and weather conditions. General guidelines that can be used as a basis for applying water with a drip irrigation system are given below. Reduce irrigation in September or after harvest in order to harden the vines for winter. Serious freeze injury can result if irrigation and fertilization are continued too late into the fall. Harvesting Muscadine varieties ripen from early August through September.