The Grape Flower and Berry Set

1. The Grape Flower and Berry Set Chapter 7

2. Carbohydrate accumulation • The percentage of starch in the annual wood is closely associated with fruit bud formation.

3. Nitrogen Supply • You are looking for a balance. • You want a nitrogen supply that induces normal growth and good foliage color which will foster good fruit-bud formation. • An excess of nitrogen will promote rank green growth and a lack of fruit-bud formation

4. Carbohydrate-nitrogen ratio • Moderate carbohydrates and very high nitrogen = strong growth with little fruit-buds or fruit production • High carbohydrates and moderate nitrogen = moderate growth with abundant fruit-bud formation and fruit production. • Very high carbohydrates and low nitrogen = poor growth and very limited fruit-bud formation and fruit production.

5. Water-supply • Create a balance with water and growth of the plant.

6. Temperature and light intensity • Temperature and water are closely associated with water. Cooling the vine. • Look at Figure 22 on page 115 • Max. bud fruitfulness 860 to 950

7. Cultural practices • Type of vine support, exposing to light and reducing shading. • Pruning, over pruning produces rank growth.

8. Bloom • Six to nine weeks after breaking dormancy. • A mean temperature of 680

9. Pollination • Self or cross pollinated? • Self, wind, insects

10. Setting of the Berries • After fertilization occurs. • Not every flower can set because there are too many and the cluster will be to compacted. • High temps can lower berry set.