How to prune grapevines

Grapes are a very popular fruit tree. If you want to grow grapes and get a lot of fruit, pruning is essential. So how do you prune grape trees? Let’s take a look at the tutorial below.

How to prune grape vines?

1. Spring bud removal

In spring, when the branches of grapes grow to about 5 cm in height, you can first adopt the method of removing buds. Generally, there are two or three buds on the branches, and you only need to keep one strong bud. Bud removal is to keep the strong buds and remove the weak ones. Those with inflorescences should be kept, and those without inflorescences should be removed. Both those with inflorescences should be left. This is a common pruning method for spring management.

2. Topping in summer

After the grapes begin to bear fruit, when the branches have 8-10 true leaves, they need to be topped. If the branches grow too long, more side branches will sprout, which will easily increase the volatilization of nutrients, causing the fruit to be insufficiently nourished and prone to wild growth. Pruning is necessary at this time. Pruning the top is the simplest way to prevent branches from growing too tall, and it is also a necessary measure to preserve fruit and promote fruit development.

3. Autumn pruning

Autumn is the time when grapes ripen. At this time, some useless side shoots and some excessive side branches should be removed, and 4-5 strong fruiting branches should be retained.

4. Winter pruning

Winter is the main time for drastic pruning of grape vines. Overgrown branches and excessive branches should be pruned away in winter, leaving only the main fruiting branches, with 3-4 buds on each branch.

Grapevine pruning precautions

1. The cut should be flat, smooth, and without stubble. The cut should be 1-2CM thick to prevent the winter buds from drying out.

2. Protect the wound by applying wound protectant or white glue.

3. Thin out large branches and leave short stumps to avoid frost damage, and remove the short stumps in the second year.

4. Avoid direct damage to the tree, so as not to harm the tree and cause spring sap flow, which will weaken the tree.

That’s it