Vineyard 101 Series: Effective Pruning Techniques

March 20, 2025

Pruning is like getting a haircut – it’s about cutting off the old stuff to allow for new, stronger growth. At a recent seminar hosted by the Independent Grape Growers of the Paso Robles Area (IGGPRA), Eddy Kronfli from Vine Shepherd Consulting shared pruning techniques that can help to improve your vineyard. In this article, we’ll cover three key methods:

 

• Spur-pruned vines: The haircut for old vines: Removing old wood to encourage new growth, typically done during the vine’s dormant period.
• Newly grafted vines: Building a strong body: Pruning young vines to help them grow strong.
• Head-trained vines: A tree with too many branches: Shaping vines to improve airflow and sunlight, also done during the dormant period.

 

Using the right approach at the right time can lead to better yields and higher-quality grapes.

 

Proven Pruning Techniques That Make a Difference

Proper pruning is key to getting the most out of your vines. Here’s a closer look at the techniques covered at the seminar:

 

• Spur Pruning: This method is used on older vines. You cut off the old, unproductive wood, leaving short sections called 'spurs.' It's similar to cutting off dead ends from your hair to help with long-term growth. These spurs grow new shoots that will produce most of the grapes. By doing this, the vine focuses on healthy growth, which leads to better grape quality and more fruit year after year.
  • Expert Tip: Choose spurs that are about 2-3 buds long, and space them evenly along the vine to prevent overcrowding and allow better airflow.

 

• Pruning Newly Grafted Vines: This process involves trimming away some of the extra shoots and leaves, so the young vine can focus on getting stronger. It's like building a house where the foundation needs to be solid before anything else. By cutting back the extra growth, the vine can use its energy to develop healthy roots and a strong stem, which will help it produce grapes in the future.
  • Expert Tip: Don't remove too much! Only trim weak or damaged shoots so the vine can still grow enough to establish strong roots.

 

• Head Training: This process involves cutting back some of the vine’s extra canes that grow too densely. It’s like a tree with too many leaves piled on top of each other. The leaves block sunlight, trap moisture, and cause problems. The goal is to create space so sunlight and air can reach the vine, helping it stay healthy. By trimming these extra parts, the vine uses its energy more effectively, focusing on growing strong, healthy grapes instead of wasting it on unnecessary growth.
  • Expert Tip:  Remove shoots growing inward, overlapping or too close to the trunk to improve airflow and reduce disease. Take it slow and don’t over-prune at once.

 

These pruning methods are essential for the long-term health and productivity of your vines. February’s seminar was a fantastic opportunity for growers to share ideas and learn hands-on techniques, all while enjoying a beautiful day in the field and preparing for the new season. We hope you join us at the next seminar!

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