To ensure that grapes grow well and produce a large harvest of tasty berries, they need consistent care throughout the warm season.

The grapevine starts growing rapidly in spring, and if not properly managed, it can result in a low yield. Excess shoots should be removed to allow the plant to focus on berry production. Stepchildren (or suckers) and shoots grow on the vine, and removing stepchildren is essential.

How to Remove Stepchildren:

  • Pinch off the stepchildren with your fingers or secateurs after 2 leaves.
  • Do not completely remove the shoot, as it can become a source of infection.
  • If there are too many stepchildren, they can block sunlight from reaching the crown of the vine, which is crucial for growth.
  • Excess stepchildren can also restrict airflow, increasing the risk of fungal infections and hindering grape ripening.

Leave Only the Right Shoots:

  • Keep only those shoots that will grow until late autumn. These should be fixed on supports, such as a trellis.
  • Remove leaves blocking the sunlight during grape ripening. Without adequate sunlight, the berries will be small and sour.
  • Remove lower leaves to improve air circulation, reducing the chance of fungal infection.

Managing the Harvest:

  • If the harvest is large, consider removing a few bunches to prevent overburdening the vine.
  • If too many bunches are left, the bush may struggle to support them, causing the berries to grow small and sour.

Watering the Grapevine:

  • During hot weather, the vine requires additional moisture. Water the bush once a week, providing 20 liters of water per bush.
  • This regular watering helps prevent the berries from cracking if it rains, maintaining their quality.

Preserving Moisture:

  • To conserve moisture, cover the ground around the bush with mulch such as sawdust, grass, cardboard, rotted compost, or tree leaves.

Preventing Pests and Diseases:

  • Grapevines are susceptible to diseases like gray rot, mildew, and powdery mildew. To prevent these, take preventive measures during the growing season.
  • If an infection occurs, treat the vines with fungicides such as Oxyhom, Topaz, or Skor. The last application should be made one month before harvesting.

With proper care and attention, your grapevine will reward you with a bountiful harvest of delicious grapes!

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