[Arid_gardener] Re: Thompson seedless Grapes Alternate Bearing

[Olin Miller]

According to web searches, Thompson Seedless grapes are generally not
alternate bearing,  but there are cultivars that are.  Also, improper
pruning during the dormant period can reduce that years' crop.  And If
grapes are not harvested but left on the vine to dry and become raisins,
the next years' crop will be light.  Most deciduous fruit trees have a
useful productive life of 8-12 years but I am not certain if that
applies to grape vines.

Olin Miller
Master Gardener Volunteer, Maricopa County AZ

"The opinions or statements expressed herein are my own and should
 not be taken as a position, opinion, or endorsement of
the University of Arizona."
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----- Original Message ----- From: <barry.wilkens at asu.edu>
Sent: Monday, April 24, 2006 10:53 AM
> Barry WIlkens, 5259,  barry.wilkens at asu.edu
> My 15 yr. old Thompson Seedless grapes did not bear fruit last year. I
> thought they might be falling into an "every other year" cycle light
> fruit trees sometimes do but there are virtually no flowers this year
> either. I have not changed anything (pruning tech. etc) that I know
> of. Does this variety get old and just give up or what?