The spring has arrived, the first leaves have grown on the vineshoots. As temperatures rise in early spring, sap begins to concentrate where the canes were pruned. Known as weeping, this is the precursor to all of the vine’s growth during the coming season. The ground temperature must be at least 10 degrees Celsius for the process to start. This is the first step in the annual life cycle of the vine.
Budbreak
After the vine pools its energy, budbreak occurs. It is a vulnerable time in the annual life cycle of the vine. Spring frosts can be particularly damaging.
Early Grape Development & Flowering During early grape development, sugars do not form, but the maximum yield is set. The next step in the annual life cycle of the vine is Flowering, and usually occurs in May or early June. The small grapes are pollinated over a week or two and remain vulnerable to frost.
