Drake column: Muscadines grow well in area

Rowan County 4-H is offering two types of muscadines through the annual spring plant sale.

The two types available are Cowart and Triumph. Cowart produces large fruit that is black in color. The fruit is in large clusters with very good flavor and fruit quality. The vines are self-pollinating, disease resistant, vigorous and productive. The fruit ripens early to mid-season and is good for eating, making juice, jelly and wine.

Triumph muscadines produce large fruit with a thin, greenish-bronze skin. This plant is winter hardy and productive with high sugar content. The fruit ripens early to mid-season and is good for eating and making wine.

Muscadine plants are two years old and come in 1-gallon containers. Cowart and Triumph muscadines are well adapted to the Piedmont growing conditions. The cost for muscadines is $9 each or $8 each if five or more are ordered.

You should avoid shaded areas when planting muscadines. Muscadines require full sun and a well-drained soil with a pH around 6.5. Plant 10 to 20 feet apart after the threat of frost is past in spring. Trellising can be as simple as a single wire positioned 5 to 6 feet above ground, or you can choose a more elaborate and decorative format.

Also available for purchase are raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and figs. All plants are in one gallon containers and cost $9 each or $8 each if five or more of the same variety are ordered.

Whether you order muscadines, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries or figs, you will enjoy the sweet yields for many years to come.

When you receive your order, you will also receive a brochure for further information on caring for your plants.

To order plants, please call the Rowan County Cooperative Extension office at 704-216-8970 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The deadline to place your order is Feb. 23.

Not only will these plants beautify your landscape, your purchase helps support the Rowan County 4-H program and the youth who are striving to make the best better.

Sara Drake is an extension agent in 4-H Youth Development.