26 May Vineyard 101: Shoot Growth & Flower Clusters
After bud break, we transition to a rapid growth period in the vineyard, as the leaves and shoots begin to emerge from the buds. This year we had a cool spell after bud break, which slowed down growth a bit. But beginning on May 9th, temperatures gradually increased in a consistent warming trend, and we shifted from days that reached peak temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees, to days with some 80 and 90 degree days. On the precipitation front, we had a rainy early May, but mostly dry weather since around May 10th. The increase in temperatures and the timely rainfall provided the vines with good conditions for growth, and we are really pleased with how the Estate Vineyard is shaping up this spring.
Our botanical drawing shows the parts of the vine that start to become visible for the first time during this stage of growth. Shoots emerge rapidly, leaf blades gradually unfurl, growing tips reach for the sky, and tendrils reach for wires to clasp. And of course, the flower clusters emerge – the beautiful compact structures from which grape flowers will emerge in just a few weeks.
The photo gallery below shows just how rapidly the transition happened this year. On May 9th (image 1), we had early shoot growth through much of the Estate Vineyard, and a few leaves were beginning to emerge. On May 16th, just one week later (image 2), shoots were around 5 inches long, and some were accompanied by between 4 – 6 leaves. Just two days later on May 19th (image 3), flower clusters became more visible throughout much of the vineyard.
The vines continue to grow at a rapid pace and will require care and tending to keep them on the right track. At present, the team is busy eliminating redundant buds and sucker shoots, weeding, and preparing for the next stage of growth. While there is much work to do, it is a joy to walk the vines each day to see the lush green canopy begin to take form.
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