How does over-pruning affect Tokay grapevines?

Over-pruning Tokay grapevines can lead to reduced yield and poor fruit quality because it removes too many buds and leaves, which are critical for the vine’s photosynthesis and fruit development. When a vine is over-pruned, there are not enough buds left to produce sufficient clusters of grapes, ultimately decreasing the quantity of fruit. Furthermore, the balance of carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis is disrupted, which can negatively impact the size and flavor of the grapes.

While adequate sunlight can indeed be beneficial for grapevines, excessive pruning does not necessarily guarantee better light exposure in a way that supports healthy growth and fruiting. Instead, it can stress the plant, compromising its overall vitality and leading to a diminished harvest. Hence, the negative consequences of over-pruning are significant, affecting both the quantity and quality of the grape production.