1. During summer, new fruit shoots grow from the buds on the lateral vines. As they develop, tie these shoots vertically to the trellis to support their growth. By mid-summer, each tied shoot should have produced 10 to 15 leaves, which is more than enough to nourish the grapes.
2. The optimal time for summer pruning is between mid-June and mid-July. Cut back each fruit shoot to the fourth or sixth leaf above the last grape cluster to ensure proper energy distribution.
3. Shorten or completely remove non-fruit-bearing and disruptive shoots by two-thirds to maintain order and focus energy on productive branches.
4. Defoliate the grapevine in the fruit zone to improve sunlight exposure for the grapes. Fresh shoots will emerge from the buds below the cut areas, promoting healthy growth.
5. Regularly monitor your grapevines for water shoots and suckers. These unproductive growths can sap vital energy from the plant. Remove water shoots from old wood and suckers from leaf axils by pinching or breaking them off with your fingers.
6. To rejuvenate an old grapevine, prune back dead framework shoots to a 15 cm stub on the main trunk or rootstock between late November and February. In subsequent years, train a vigorous young shoot to fill the gap and direct energy toward healthy growth.
Common questions about grapevines:
– Are grapevines self-pollinating? Yes, most grapevines are self-fertile, meaning one plant can produce grapes. However, planting multiple varieties can enhance yield.
– How should I train a grapevine with three shoots on a single stem? Select the strongest shoot to train upward, cutting back the others to the ground. Once the main shoot reaches the desired height, trim it to encourage branching.
– What size pot is suitable for container-grown grapevines? Choose a pot that allows for adequate root growth, typically between 20 and 50 liters, depending on the intended spread of the vine.
Happy pruning and may your grapevines flourish abundantly!
