How to prune grapes in spring
Spring is the golden period for grape growth, and scientific pruning directly affects the fruit quality and yield of that year. Mastering the correct grape pruning method can not only optimize the plant structure, but also effectively prevent pests and diseases. This article will systematically analyze the complete operating process of spring grape pruning. The core technique of spring grape pruning is to retain buds. Accurately control 70-80% of the winter buds on the mother branch. After germination, the bud spots are selected according to the principle of "removing the weak and retaining the strong." Keep 12-15 strong buds per square meter of shelf surface, with a spacing of 15-20 cm. Special note: 10% more buds can be reserved as a buffer for freezing damage in cold areas in the north. Dynamic bud wiping management is divided into three stages: removing double buds/deformed buds during germination period, eliminating excessively dense buds during leaf expansion period, and removing hidden buds during new shoot growth period. The recommended ratio of retaining fruiting branches to vegetative branches is 3:1 to ensure that 2-5 high-quality new shoots are retained per mother branch. Scientific picking and tying the vines before picking the flowers adopts the "Five-Eight Rules": leave 5 leaves above the inflorescences for picking, and leave 8 leaves for picking the nutrient branches for picking. Synchronously tie the vines to make the branches and the frame surface form an angle of 45° to promote ventilation and light transmission. Use a special branch binding button to avoid damaging the epidermis. Control of grape pruning time The optimal pruning period is when the average daily temperature is stable above 10℃: from late March to early April in North China, and from the end of February to mid-March in Jiangnan. Pay attention to avoid late spring cold periods and treat the incision with healing agent immediately after pruning to prevent ulcer infection.
Spring pruning of grapes is a key part of annual management and needs to be flexibly adjusted based on variety characteristics. Oriental varieties such as Jufeng should be cut heavily, and European and American varieties such as Xiahei can be cut lightly. It is recommended to cooperate with water and fertilizer management, apply high phosphorus fertilizer after pruning to promote flower bud differentiation, and regularly check the growth of new shoots to ensure high quality and high yield of grapes.