Muscadine grapes
Paul Asked
I read your recent column with interest as I have always wanted to grow muscadine grapes for making wine, but every time I have read anything about them, I am discouraged that it will be a waste of my time and they will die when the temperature gets below 10°. I started google anew after reading the article and everywhere I look at it still says that the minimum USDA zone is 7 and half of Kentucky is 6 including where I live in Northern Kentucky. The article mentions that they could be produced on a large scale in Kentucky. Do you have any vineyards or examples where this is happening that I could refer to or contact? Are there any hardier cultivars than what is sold by most nurseries?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi Paul, Thank you for reaching out. You’re absolutely right that Northern Kentucky falls within USDA hardiness zone 6b, and muscadines are typically recommended for zone 7 and warmer. The reader that asked about growing muscadines in Kentucky is gardening in the southern part of the state. I should have been more specific about those in zone 6b where muscadines are marginal. Success in this zone will depend on cultivar selection, growing conditions, and winter protection. Some of the more cold-hardy cultivars to consider are Carlos, Magnolia, and Noble. The Boone and/or Kenton County Cooperative Extension Service is a great local resource for you.
