Weed Management Keep an area 1 to 2 feet in diameter around each vine free of weeds by shallow cultivation for the first 2 years. A coarse, non-nitrogen releasing mulch such as bark will also help control weeds and reduce moisture loss from the soil. Irrigation Muscadine grapes are quite drought tolerant. Water during dry periods the first two years, then the vines can usually obtain adequate water from the soil even during dry periods. Potential for Organic Production Muscadine grapes can often be grown successfully without insecticides or fungicides.
Japanese beetles are often the most damaging insects.
Selecting cultivars with some disease resistance such as 'Carlos', 'Nesbitt', 'Noble', 'Triumph' or 'Regale' will reduce the losses without fungicide applications. Published by North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Distributed in furtherance of the Acts of Congress of May 8 and June 30, 1914. Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.