Grow your own mini vineyard! Pixie™ grapes are the world’s first compact wine grape. Naturally dwarf, Grape Pixie™ 'Cabernet Franc' grows only 30-50cm a year, making it perfect for growing on a small terrace or balcony.
Unlike traditional vines that can take up to three years to produce grapes, the Pixie grape begins producing small grapes in its first year. Not only that, but it continues to flower and bear fruit through summer and into autumn! With its extended season, this dwarf vine is brilliant for all-year-round growing in small greenhouses. Pixie™ grapes have naturally short stems and put energy into growing flowers rather than tendrils. This results in many small fruit clusters, each about 10cm on average.
Dating back to 18th century, Cabernet Franc is one of the most widely planted black grape varieties in the world, producing pale red wines with a peppery aroma. Pixie™ grapes come in a range of varieties, so you can grow your own selection of vintage wines, even in the smallest of growing spaces! Easy to look after, this low-maintenance grape is perfect for those starting out on their wine-growing journey.
Height of cordon trained vine: 60cm (2ft). Spread of cordon trained vine: 30cm (1ft).
Growing Information
When growing grape vines choose a sunny position in any well drained soil. A south facing position against a wall is ideal. Grape vines require sturdy support for their twining stems. Before planting, prepare a framework of wires stretched horizontally between two sturdy 1.8m (6') posts or attached to a warm wall. Prior to planting, incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost into the soil. Plant grape vines against the wire supports, allowing a distance of 2m (6') between plants. After planting, reduce the newly planted grape vine back to height of the lowest support wire, and cut back any side shoots to one bud, before tying the main stem in to the supporting wires.
