Introduction: The timing of irrigation for grapes is crucial for ensuring optimal growth and fruit development. Adequate water supply during specific periods is essential for promoting growth and fruit set, while controlled water supply during later stages is necessary to induce dormancy and prepare the grapevine for winter. This article outlines the key irrigation periods for grapevines.
I. Pre-Bud Break to Flowering Period:
During this period, soil moisture must be sufficient to enhance shoot growth, increase leaf area, and promote photosynthesis, thereby facilitating normal flowering and fruit set. Soil moisture should be maintained at approximately 75% of field capacity.
II. Shoot Growth and Berry Enlargement Period:
This stage represents the critical period for grapevine water demand. Shoot growth is most vigorous, and the root system is highly sensitive to water and nutrient conditions. Inadequate water supply may lead to competition for water between leaves and berries, resulting in berry drop and root hair death in the root tip zone, leading to weakened above-ground growth and significantly reduced yields. Soil moisture should be maintained at 75% to 85% of field capacity.
III. Rapid Berry Enlargement Period:
During this period, characterized by rapid berry enlargement and extensive flower bud differentiation, timely irrigation is crucial for fruit development and bud differentiation. Soil moisture should be maintained at 70% to 80% of field capacity.
IV. Post-Harvest and Dormancy Period:
Combining deep tillage, fertilization, and irrigation after harvest helps in the decomposition of fertilizers and root absorption, creating favorable conditions for growth in the following spring. In cold regions, irrigating with freeze-proof water before soil freezing is highly beneficial for winter survival.
By adhering to these irrigation periods, grape growers can optimize grapevine health, yield, and quality throughout the growing season.