074: Variation in Young Vine Training in Diverse Climates

In this solo episode, we take a deep dive into the many variables that influence young vine training in different climates. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how climate, trellis selection, rootstock vigor, and regional weather risks shape vine training strategies. Fritz explains how cold-climate growers often rely on double trunks or “spare parts viticulture” to prepare for winter damage, while warmer-climate vineyards may benefit from fast-tracking techniques like green topping and one-shoot training for quicker vineyard establishment.

We walk through scenarios where single-trunk systems are ideal, when to consider double trunks, and how the practice of renewing trunks every few years can extend vine longevity. We also break down when to use green topping, how to avoid bull canes, and why mature leaves on developing trunks should never be removed. 

Growers will leave this episode with specific, actionable tips to match their training approach to their unique vineyard conditions, helping them improve both short-term success and long-term vineyard health.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Differences between trellis systems and vine training systems

• When and why to use single vs. double trunk strategies

• What “spare parts viticulture” is and where it makes sense

• Green topping and other fast-tracking methods explained

• How to manage training for high- and low-vigor vineyard sites

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Resources:

Check out Fritz’s additional resources to help you care for your vines and vineyard in years 1-3 at VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/YoungVineyard.

If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. 

Episode Sponsor:

Today’s episode was brought to you by Sunridge Nurseries and the Inside Winemaking podcast.

Thank you to Sunridge Nurseries for sponsoring today’s episode. Sunridge Nurseries is the exclusive nursery sponsor of the Vineyard Underground podcast. They have been a family-owned company for over 45 years, and their dedicated focus on quality and consistency has grown them into the largest supplier of grapevines in both North and South America and the industry leader in nursery standards. Visit them today at SunridgeNurseries.com and mention the code Underground to receive a podcast listener discount on your vine order.

Thank you to the Inside Winemaking podcast for sponsoring today’s episode. To learn more about the art & science of winemaking with Jim Duane, visit www.insidewinemaking.com/ and listen to the Inside Winemaking podcast on your favorite podcast app with new episodes releasing every other Tuesday.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.