What could be the impact of late pruning on Tokay grapevines?

Late pruning on Tokay grapevines can significantly affect the growth and production of the vines. When pruning is delayed, the vines may experience early bud development that coincides with cooler spring weather. This misalignment can be risky because if buds open too early, they become vulnerable to late frosts. A frost event may damage young buds and flowers, resulting in a delay in fruit set and ultimately leading to reduced yield or poor fruit quality.

In addition to the potential for frost damage, the timing of pruning influences the overall vigor and health of the grapevines. Properly timed pruning allows for optimal bud break and healthy growth patterns, which are essential for maximizing grape quality and quantity. Therefore, the impact of late pruning is primarily reflected in the risk of delays and damage caused by frost, making the option regarding delay in fruit set and potential frost damage accurate and significant.