When to prune southern grapes, pruning time and method

1. Pruning time

The recommended pruning time for southern grapes is between 20 days after leaf fall and 15 days before bud break, usually between December and January. It should not be too early or too late. If pruned too early, its cold resistance will be reduced. If you prune too late, when buds have already begun to sprout, it will easily lead to sap flow, which will weaken the tree and be detrimental to its later growth.

2. Pruning method

1. Short tip pruning: When pruning, you should consider the specific growth and variety of the tree. If it is a European or American hybrid variety, short-tip pruning is recommended. It is enough to leave only 2-3 buds on the branches of the year, which can save a lot of nutrients and is conducive to flowering and fruiting in the later period.

2. Mid-tip pruning: This method is suitable for trees with a high fruiting branch rate, medium growth and low flower bud position, such as Red Globe and Ruby. After pruning, only 4-7 buds are left on the branches of the year.

3. Long-tip pruning: This method is suitable for tree species with vigorous growth, low fruiting branch rate and high flower bud growth area, such as Crescent, Beauty Finger and other varieties. After pruning, just leave 8-11 buds on the branches of the year.

3. Precautions for pruning

Pay attention to the specific pruning position. The cut should not be too close to the bud, otherwise it will easily lead to water loss and the bud cannot germinate better. In addition, pay attention to the length of the branches. Those that grow strong should be longer, while those that grow weak should naturally be shorter.