I've had a few vines in now for a couple (3-4) years. So far, I've not been impressed with the quantity of clusters that have been formed this spring...Does it take awhile (how many more years?) to get a cluster per shoot....? Or shall I look into other problems ? The vines are very vigorous, and therefore might be shading the wood too much, and buds not getting enough sun ?? The varieties are Fantasy, Thompson (both on cane pruning)and, Princess, Flame, Crimson ( on spur pruning ). I've not fertilized past 1st year, as the shoot growth has been tremendous....Any advice welcomed.. EZ

HI EZ$$, I have some grape Plants and find when i cut them down during fall after they have had there grapes the plants do better .. i just trim off old growth..

also i have mine still in the 3 g pots until i can get back to the grape bed i plan on making ..
i have Flame , Norton , both great for wine as well as jams i also have the some others but basically those are for my parrots and wild birds ...
Concords i wont share LOL

Norton was invented by my great Grandfather Danielle Earl Norton 18++ in Missouri.. i went to the vineyard and they gave me some new cuttings rooted as i was looking for his and Great Grandma Rhodas grave ..they had been burried in the family Grave yard and No One has been there befor me looking .. the people where very nice and im really excited as i also have 2 cases of wines made from the grapes .. as a free gift.. Pretty cool huh.. Plus invited back any time to learn more about my family history.. as Both my grand Parents where Boot Leggers .. Tammy

OOPS forgot the link i have been using sorry

http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG1103.html

EZ, it takes about 5 to 7 years before they really take off in terms of production. Your grapes this year should be fully loaded. Every one in our area, up to the foothills have their grapevines loaded.