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The vine is hardier
than imagined and at one time was grown outdoors
in most parts of England, possible introduced
by the Romans. In recent years, vineyards have
been re-established and wine-making is now a flourishing
business. Vines can withstand frost to a temperature
of -11°C (12°F). Outdoors, fruits of the
Chasselas types can remain on the plants until
early December. A little frost improves their
sweetness and quality.
Vines require an open, sunny situation where the
fruit and also the canes can ripen. They may be
grown on a stake, like runner beans, planted 120cm
(4ft) apart; or three could be planted 90cm (3ft)
apart, with the stakes tied together at the top
in tent fashion; fifty will take up little space
in the garden. Otherwise they may be grown horizontally
against a sunny wall; in the open, training the
stems along strong wires’ against a wooden
trellis acting as a screen; or used to clothe
a garden shelter.
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