The Desert Wine Guy - The Grapevine, Let's Talk about It.

   Today we will look at what makes up a grape vine as well as the names and purpose of each part of the vine. For your assistance I have provided a diagram if needed to help you follow along.

Roots - The roots are simply the part of the vine that allow it to get it's nutrients from the soil. There are actually two kinds of roots the vine has. The first type of root is called subterranean. These quick growing roots grow near the top and try to capture moisture, they do not live long. They also also help to stabilize or anchor the vine to keep it secure in the ground. The next type of root is called principal. These roots bring moisture and minerals directly to the vine and store nutrients to help feed the vine while in the dormant stage which takes place in the winter.

Trunk -  The next part of the vine we will look at is called the trunk. The trunk is the part of the vine we see that comes from the ground. The trunk is the base that everything grows from or off. Most vineyards we see have one trunk but there are some that are grown with two trunks.

Cordons / Arms - Next in line is what is called the arms or cordons. These are the only two (if pruned correctly)  branches that grow along the wire we set up for the vine to grow on. Everything we want from this vine will start from the cordons.

Shoots / Buds / Nodes - This is one of the items that will grow directly from the cordon. Sometimes these are also called Shoots, Buds or Nodes. These Shoots/Buds and Nodes become canes and that is the next item to discuss.

Canes - The Canes grow the part of the vine that we visually identify as the branches. A cane will also have Shoots / Buds / Nodes. This is where our grapes will come from.

Tendrils - These are what allow the vine to attach itself to walls or anything else including other parts of the vine.

Leaves - I am sure I don't have to explain to you what these are. Leaves are very important to the survival of the grapes in the hot summer months. Leaves act as shade to the grapes, keeping the direct heat off of them. Ever heard of Raisins?

   That is pretty much it everyone. It seems pretty simple and it is. I hope you learned a little something from today's post. If you did and would like to check out my Facebook dedicated solely to wine here is the link.
https://www.facebook.com/DesertWineGuy?ref=hl I hope to see you there.

                                                                                                                    The Desert Wine Guy