Vine Training
is done to optimize sunlight and airflow
Vine
Training can is a very important step in your grape growing.
Vine Training is done to optimize the trellis system you have
for your vines. You want to have your vines
separated so they do not fight for sunlight or
air. It's just that simple from what I understand.
What do I need?
There are several different types of vine training attaching
products out there. Here are some that I have
tried. Be sure to contact a distributor for a free sample of various types
if they offer them.
Two Piece Snap Together
Sleeve type - Blue X
Milk cartons
Also, here's the progress with my
new Vignole vines I planted back in mid April,
2003. The one on the left is using the Blue-X
growtube. The one on the right is a snap together
2 piece growtube. I have found the snap
together growtube to be much easier later on for pruning lower
growth as the vine gets older and starts reaching the trellis
wire.
Here are the vines as of July 27,
2003. From the photos to the right, you can make your
own determination. Personally, I like the snap
together style of grow tube. It is easy to remove for
pruning. Also, at the end of the summer months,
you'll want to remove the grow tubes. If you have
the Blue-X style, you'll have to cut the replaceable plastic
outer sleeve and order new ones the next year.