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3 2 V I N E YA R D & W I N E RY M A N A G E M E N T | M a r - A p r 2 014 w w w. v w m m e d i a . c o m is advisable to set up a trellis for a larger vine with heavier fruit-hold- ing capacity. A lyre or split canopy system may be appropriate. In low- er-vigor sites, a vertical trellis or sin- gle-canopy system should be more than adequate. Cross arms can be useful, espe- cially in warmer climates, to avoid sun damage and berry shrivel – an genotype accounted for significant differences in pruning weight, berry weight and yield per vine. However, the impact of rootstock selection on yield is not straightforward. In many instances, lower-vigor root- stocks improve yields, and many rootstock studies have shown a negative correlation between yields and vine vigor. High-vigor rootstocks, particular- ly if paired with a lower-vigor scion, can cause excessive vigor and problems with floral initiation and fruit set, and thus lower yields. Yet high-vigor rootstocks are often rec- ommended at low-vigor sites to get vines established and productive. Since the effects of rootstock on scion vigor and yield are specific to the particular combination, it makes sense to research which combina- tions work well in neighboring sites. There are many factors to consider when choosing variety and root- stock, but it is always essential that the plant material used is devoid of serious viruses or other issues. TRAIN FOR SUCCESS Once you have selected the variety, clone and rootstock combi- nation for your site, it is important to design an appropriate trellising and training system. At a high-vigor site with high-vigor selections, it important factor in yield loss in these areas. Row orientation may be important for protecting grapes in hot climates or achieving ade- quate sunlight in cool climates. Pruning decisions make a huge impact on yields. The number of buds left determines the number of shoots in the following season and therefore the capacity for the num- It's important to design a trellis and training system that suits the vineyard's variety, clone and rootstock combination. Photo: GeorgeBurba/Thinkstock SOIL & CELLAR REMI COHEN