‘Vroege van der Laan’ grapevine (Vitis vinifera) – table grape – 15 cm pot – height: 50 cm – pack of 2

The 'Vroege van der Laan' grape vine (Vitis vinifera) is an early-fruiting variety: it can begin to bear fruit as early as the second or third year after planting, provided it receives full sun and proper pruning. The clusters form during the summer, and the black grapes reach full maturity in late summer, generally between mid-August and September, depending on your region's weather conditions.

The 'Vroege van der Laan' vine is a light-demanding plant that absolutely requires exposure to full sun. A south or southwest-facing wall or fence provides the ideal location: the heat absorbed by the wall improves berry ripening and protects the buds from late spring frosts. In a garden without a wall, a well-exposed open pergola is perfectly suitable. In shade or partial shade, the vine grows poorly, produces little fruit, and becomes more susceptible to fungal diseases such as downy mildew or powdery mildew.

The pruning of the 'Vroege van der Laan' is the 'most important cultural practice to ensure a good harvest. It 'is carried out at the end of 'winter, ideally in February-March, just before the start of the growing season. The basic principle is to perform short pruning by reducing each cane from the 'previous year to 2 or 3 buds, which concentrates the 'plant's energy on a limited number of quality clusters. During the season, remove non-productive shoots (water sprouts, shoots in the middle of the cluster) and regularly tie up the new shoots.

Yes, the 'Vroege van der Laan' grape vine (Vitis vinifera) is a fully hardy variety that easily withstands temperate European winters. Once well established in the ground, it can tolerate sub-zero temperatures without any special protection: the lignified canes withstand severe frosts. However, the young buds and inflorescences that appear in spring are sensitive to late frosts, which can occasionally compromise the harvest.

The 'Vroege van der Laan' vine adapts to a wide variety of soils, which is part of the reputation of Vitis vinifera in global viticulture. However, it prefers well-drained soils, light to moderately rich, slightly calcareous or neutral (pH 6.5 to 7.5). Soils that are too heavy, clayey, or constantly wet promote root rot and fungal diseases. At planting, incorporate a good volume of mature compost to improve the soil structure and apply organic mulch around the base to retain moisture in summer.

Yes, the Vigne 'Vroege van der Laan' grows very well in a pot on a sunny balcony or terrace. Choose a large container d'at least 40 to 50 cm in diameter and depth to give the roots enough 'space to grow. Use a well-draining potting mix and install a support (wall-mounted trellis, mesh, or stake) when potting. W'atering in a container must be more regular than 'in the ground, especially during a heatwave.

The Vigne 'Vroege van der Laan' contributes positively to the biodiversity of the multi-level garden. In spring, its small, slightly fragrant greenish-white flowers attract bees, bumblebees, and many pollinating insects. In summer, the dense foliage provides shelter and areas of 'shade appreciated by garden beneficial insects. At maturity, the bunches of black grapes are highly prized by frugivorous birds such as blackbirds and starlings, which may require the installation of 'a protective net if you wish to preserve your harvest.