Tending Grapes: Pruning During Growing Season

The First Year

• After planting, remove all but one cane. Regular pruning keeps new shoots from developing, allowing the single cane to grow strong.

The Second Year

• During the second year, pruning away all new shoots allows the main cordon to grow and reach the top of the trellis. As the main cordon reaches the top of the trellis, select three or four shoots for lateral development along the support wires. Prune the lateral canes back, leaving two to four buds on each.

The Third Year

• During the third year, remove all shoots except for two at each wire. These remaining canes train onto the wires.