How should healthy canes be chosen during pruning?

Choosing healthy canes during pruning is crucial for the overall health and productivity of the grapevine. The best approach is to select thick, vigorous canes with good bud development. These canes are more likely to produce strong shoots in the growing season, leading to better fruit yield and quality.

Thick canes generally indicate a healthy vine that has received adequate sunlight, nutrients, and water throughout the growing season. Additionally, good bud development means that the buds are well-formed and have a higher potential for producing fruitful shoots. This contributes to a more vigorous vine, which is essential for producing quality grapes.

In contrast, selecting only thin canes compromises vine health, as they are often less productive and may indicate a lack of vigor. Additionally, canes with fewer knots may not necessarily correlate with better health or productivity, as knots can be a normal aspect of cane growth. Finally, while canes that are at least two years old may sometimes be beneficial, the key factor in selection is the vigor and bud development of the cane rather than its age alone.