What is the purpose of trellising the vine?

Vine trellising is a widely used technique. It involves training the vine onto a structure by attaching its stems with ties. Its implementation is necessary as it ensures the vine's longevity. But that's not all. Trellising also improves yield quality. In this article, we will discover exactly what vine trellising is used for. 

What is its purpose?

Weather alone isn't enough for a vine to grow quickly! So, if you want to ensure your vines thrive, opt for trellising. Why do you think that is? 
 

• Trellising aims to support the vines and keep them upright. This ensures good air circulation and even spacing of the stems, preventing overcrowding which can ultimately harm the plant. 
• Trellising supports the vines, allowing them to receive sunlight. Sunlight promotes plant growth and its aeration reduces the risk of pesticides. 

• Trellising also makes it easier for vineyard workers to pass through. Mechanical machinery will also be able to pass, which will greatly reduce working time. 

How to create your trellis?

From the second year onwards in the vineyards, preparations should be made to install supports. These will support the vines. Indeed, the balance between the vine's growth and its production will determine the quality of the harvest, and this is precisely why vigilance is necessary. 

Depending on the expected yield per grape variety, it's best to consider optimizing the vineyard's height. But to achieve this, you need to know the characteristics and limitations of the grape variety. 

The ideal time to install your trellis

If you're planning to install trellising for your vines, the best time is during March and April. This allows you to do it before the main work begins in the spring. However, it's advisable to plant the posts six months in advance to ensure they are firmly anchored. This will allow the lifting wires, which provide traction, to be attached to the posts. 

The steps to follow for trellising the vine

Choose the stake

First and foremost, choose the post. It must be sturdy, especially resistant to decay. For this, acacia wood is a good choice, as it meets these criteria very well. 

Plant the stake

Choose an ideal time and plant the stake. Humid weather is best. 

Position the stake

It is best to position the top stake. In particular, ensure the correct angle of 20 to 30°. Also, measure 1 meter vertically from the stake and 40 cm horizontally. 

Secure the mooring line

The anchor ensures the longevity of the vine. Therefore, it is considered important to secure it. But for good trellis stability, the anchor point should be located at a distance equal to at least 80% of the above-ground height of the top post. 

Install the lifting wires

The lifting wires will support the young shoots. They also ensure organized and vertical growth of the foliage. 

Install trellising staples

For the final step, you'll use staples to connect the riser wires together. And that's it!