What is a common mistake made during Tokay grapevine pruning?

The selection of failing to make clean cuts as a common mistake during Tokay grapevine pruning highlights a vital aspect of effective vine maintenance. Clean cuts are essential because they promote quicker healing and reduce the risk of disease. When pruning, using sharp, sanitized tools ensures that cuts are smooth, which minimizes tissue damage and helps the grapevine recover more efficiently. Ragged or torn cuts can lead to stress on the vine and serve as entry points for pathogens, potentially causing adverse effects on the plant’s overall health.

In contrast, while options like over-pruning, poor timing, and ignoring the vine's health signs can certainly contribute to pruning errors, failing to make clean cuts is particularly critical as it directly impacts the vine's capacity to heal and thrive post-pruning. Thus, prioritizing clean cuts is crucial for maintaining the vigor and productivity of Tokay grapevines.