Irrigation in viticulture
Irrigation in viticulture is the process of applying extra water in the cultivation of grapevines. It is considered both controversial and essential to wine production. In the physiology of the grapevine, the amount of available water affects photosynthesis and hence growth, as well as the development of grape berries. While climate and humidity play important roles, a typical grape vine needs 25-35 inches of water a year, occurring during the spring and summer months of the growing season, to avoid stress. A vine that does not receive the necessary amount of water will have its growth altered in a number of ways; some effects of water stress are considered desirable by wine grape growers.
A vineyard with a drip irrigation system running along the bottom of the vines
Advances in irrigation have allowed viticulture to flourish in very dry climates, such as parts of Australia, that might not otherwise be able to sustain grapevines.
Water is vital to many of the physiological processes of the grape vine, including photosynthesis.
Sandy soils typically have poor water retention but good drainage. However, if its mixed with significant amounts of clay, such as this soil sample, its water retaining properties will increase while still draining well.
Annual growth cycle of grapevines
The annual growth cycle of grapevines is the process that takes place in the vineyard each year, beginning with bud break in the spring and culminating in leaf fall in autumn followed by winter dormancy. From a winemaking perspective, each step in the process plays a vital role in the development of grapes with ideal characteristics for making wine. Viticulturalists and vineyard managers monitor the effect of climate, vine disease and pests in facilitating or impeding the vine's progression from bud break, flowering, fruit set, veraison, harvesting, leaf fall and dormancy-reacting if need be with the use of viticultural practices like canopy management, irrigation, vine training and the use of agrochemicals. The stages of the annual growth cycle usually become observable within the first year of a vine's life. The amount of time spent at each stage of the growth cycle depends on a number of factors-most notably the type of climate and the characteristics of the grape variety.
Grape vine and fruit
The bud of a Regent vine located between the stem and petiole.
Developing inflorescences
The calyptra is shed and pollen is transferred from the anthers to the stigma fertilizing the flower.