Evaluation of yield and total leaf area in different free-canopy vine-training systems with possible mechanization

Abstract

Many vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina, are being modified to new vine-training systems that allow mechanical canopy management. These are free canopy systems already studied in countries such as Australia. Some of non-shoot positioning requirements systems are Casarsa, Box pruning, free cordon-trained and “V” or minimally pruned cordon trained system. The aim was to obtain quantitative and qualitative information in order to characterize these vine-training systems under Mendoza’s growing conditions. In 2016-17 growing season, three free-canopy trained vineyards were selected in Lavalle, north of Mendoza. Two of them had been modified from bilateral cordon with spurs to Box pruning system. The third one was established and trained as Casarsa. Varieties evaluated are Cabernet Sauvignon and Bonarda. The preliminary results showed that the vineyards were in vegetative-reproductive balance. The yields of Cabernet Sauvignon variety trained in Box pruning system vineyards were 9,0 and 13,2 t/ha. Bonarda trained in Casarsa system had a 37,7 t/ha yield. The values of Total leaf area/fruit weight were 1,5 m²/kg in Box pruning and 0,59 m²/kg in Casarsa. These results are similar to the ones showed by other authors in balanced canopies. Sugar concentration in wine grapes from Cabernet Sauvignon trained in Box pruning was approximately about 23ºBrix. The content of Bonarda with Casarsa system was 20 ºBrix.The information obtained may contribute to the decision-making of producers and technicians if they are interested in changing training systems in vineyards in production or before a new vineyard establishment.