Wine Grapes and Small Fruit

WINE GRAPES IN ST. MARY'S COUNTY

Wine grapes have become a very popular alternative agricultural product to grow in St. Mary's County.

Should you have any questions on how to get started, please do not hesitate to contact me at 301-475-4484.

grapes

FRUIT PRODUCTION IN ST. MARY'S COUNTY

Fruit production is another agricultural enterprise in our county. There are various kinds of fact sheets to help you get started. Please take a look at our AGNR publications site to help you decide if fruit production is right for you.

Blueberries, Strawberries, Blackberries and Raspberries are popular small fruits. Getting Started with Small Fruits is a good publication to consider if you want to start growing your own.


The following is a pictoral overview of the establishment process of 1/2 acre of blueberries.

Preparing for blueberry planting at Central Maryland Research and Education Center-Upper Marlboro Facility. Note the land has been plowed, harrowed and first raised beds formed.	A close-up view of the raised bed. Soil drainage is a major limiting factor for blueberry production in St. Mary's County. Raised beds increase drainage and provide a good growing area, however they also require careful irrigation management to prevent beds from drying out in the summer heat.

The site has been prepared and beds formed. An application of sulfur was applied before the beds were formed to lower the pH to 4.8. The area is now ready for planting.	Dr. Joe Fiola holds two blueberry plants ready to grow in the ground. Note the nice root system and large size of the plant.

Planting holes were augered and peat moss added to increase organic matter level.	Plants are spaced 4 feet in each of the rows.

Plants are dropped in the hole and hand planted.	Overview of the planting process.

Trickle irrigation line was immediately layed after planting and water supplied to the new plantings.	Plants are now watered and ready to grow. We planted on April 15.

Final beds are 6 inches tall with tapered sides. The beds have held up well over the last 4 years.	Next step-Apply mulch. We will next apply a 2-3 inch of well composted, low pH mulch. Mulch will keep shallow root systems cool and help conserve water in the root zone.