Vineyard Under Ice

The ice storms in February left Blue Sky Vineyard grapevines covered in ice.  Other than delaying winter pruning for several days, no damage was caused to the grapevines.

The vines need to be winter pruned by bud break.  In southern Illinois bud break typically occurs by mid April, however it can occur earlier.  Last spring bud break occurred at the end of March.

What Is Bud Break? 

Bud break is when the buds break out of dormancy and produce the fruiting shoot.  These shoots are very tender and susceptible to spring frosts. 

Why Do We Winter Prune? 

During winter we prune our dormant vines to remove approximately 90% of the wood.  Dormant pruning is the most important vineyard practice.  It helps regulate the number of buds on each vine for a smaller, higher quality grape crop.

Great Grapes Equal A Fine Wine