What do fruiting canes in grapevines do?

Fruiting canes in grapevines are specifically responsible for producing the fruit for the current year's crop. These canes typically bear clusters of grapes that develop and ripen throughout the growing season. The process starts when the grapevine buds in early spring, and as these buds break and grow, they elongate into fruiting canes that ultimately support the growth of grapes.

Each season, the pruning process involves selecting which canes will be retained as fruiting canes to optimize the grape yield for that year. This positioning allows for maximum sunlight exposure and airflow, which are crucial for healthy fruit development. The focus of management for grapevines heavily revolves around ensuring these fruiting canes are healthy and well-maintained to produce quality grapes for winemaking or consumption.

Understanding the role of fruiting canes is vital for effective vineyard management and helps grape growers make informed decisions regarding training, pruning, and care for the vines throughout the growing season.