How to prune grapes

When is the right time to prune grapes?

Grapes are generally pruned twice a year, once in winter and once in summer, around December in winter and around June in summer. They recover faster after pruning.

If the grapes are seedlings, they should be pruned lightly, and the branches that grow too poorly should be pruned. For mature plants, old and dry branches should be pruned to stimulate the plant to grow new branches and leaves.

Grape pruning tips

Grapes need to be budded in spring, topped and pinched in summer, side shoots pinched and branches thinned in autumn, and heavily pruned in winter to help them survive the winter better.

Pruning and flowering: Before the grapes bloom, the newly grown branches and vines should be pinched and the tendrils should be cleared away. This will be beneficial to the growth of branches and vines and later fruit.

Pruning results in more fruits: Grapes have limited nutrition. Generally, only one inflorescence should be left on each fruiting branch, and the rest should be removed. Ten days before flowering, only 13-20 spikelets in the middle of the side spike should be retained. Otherwise, the growth will be too dense and the nutrients will be wasted.

Grape pruning precautions

The cut edges of the grapes should be flat, smooth and free of stubble. After pruning, they should be disinfected with white latex and then placed in a cool and ventilated place for maintenance.