Summer’s in full swing, and if you’ve got grapevines in your garden, this is the perfect time to give them some focused care. Pruning grapevines in summer might seem like a task for expert growers, but with the right steps, anyone can do it and boost their harvest. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keeping your vines healthy, organized, and fruitful during the warm months.
1. Tie Up Those Fruit-Bearing Shoots
As the season progresses, fruiting shoots begin to sprout from buds on the lateral vines. You’ll want to gently tie these young shoots straight up along your trellis system. By the time midsummer rolls around, each one should have about 10 to 15 leaves—plenty to nourish those grape clusters without overtaxing the plant.
2. Timing Is Everything
Aim to do your summer pruning between mid-June and mid-July. For each shoot that’s bearing fruit, count about four to six leaves above the top grape cluster, then snip off the rest. This helps the plant focus its energy right where it matters—on the grapes.
3. Trim the Non-Essentials
Some shoots won’t bear fruit and might start making the vine look messy. Cut those non-productive or overly aggressive shoots back by two-thirds—or even remove them altogether. This clears space and helps the vine concentrate its energy on the fruitful branches.
4. Let the Sun Shine In
One of the best things you can do for your grapes is remove excess leaves around the fruit zone. This “defoliation” improves sunlight exposure, which can enhance flavor and ripening. You’ll likely see fresh growth emerging from the buds just below where you trimmed, encouraging a cycle of healthy development.
5. Keep an Eye Out for Suckers and Water Shoots
Unwanted growths like suckers (tiny shoots growing in leaf axils) and water shoots (vigorous growth from older wood) can drain energy from your grapevine. Regularly check for these and remove them by pinching or snapping them off with your fingers. It’s a small job that makes a big difference.
6. Refresh Old Vines with Strategic Pruning
Got an older grapevine that’s looking tired? Between late November and February, cut any dead or unproductive framework shoots back to a short 15 cm stub on the trunk or rootstock. In the years that follow, train a strong, healthy new shoot to grow into the empty space and breathe new life into the vine.
Common Grapevine Questions
Are grapevines self-pollinating?
Yes, most varieties can self-pollinate, so even a single plant can produce grapes. Still, growing a few different types nearby can sometimes improve your yield.
How do I manage three shoots on one stem?
Pick the most vigorous of the three to keep and train it upward. Snip the other two at the base. Once your chosen shoot reaches the right height, trim it to encourage side branching.
What pot size is best for grapevines in containers?
You’ll want a container that holds between 20 to 50 liters, depending on how large you plan for the vine to grow. This gives the roots room to stretch and thrive.
Summer pruning may sound like a chore, but it’s actually a chance to shape and support your grapevines for a better, healthier harvest. With just a bit of effort, your vines will reward you with juicy clusters and lush foliage.
Happy pruning—and here’s to a bountiful grape season!
