Exposed…

January 26th, 2010 | Posted by Kirk

Removal leaves in the fruiting zone, usually at some point between fruit set and pea size, favourably alters the microclimate in the canopy. It increase light and heat on the bunches which can advance grape maturity and improve berry composition. This is a real advantage in cool climate wine growing regions. In addition the increased airflow around the fruit helps to control disease pressure, the decreased levels of shading and humidity build-up help to combat Powdery Mildew and Botrytis, our two main enemies here in the South Island. This machine is very gentle on the fruit. It uses pulsed air to remove the leaves rather than the harsher vaccum removers of old.