Neuaustrieb

Neuaustrieb, in horticultural terms, is the emergence of new shoots from latent buds on a plant. The term is used in German-language horticulture and forestry to describe fresh growth that appears after dormancy, after pruning, or following damage.

Many woody plants keep dormant buds along the stem or at the base (basal shoots). When spring warmth and light return, hormonal changes and carbohydrate reserves stimulate bud break and shoot elongation. Pruning can release axillary buds from dormancy and create several competing shoots, and apical dominance may be reduced, increasing the number of new shoots.

Neuaustriebe are usually more delicate than established wood, often lighter green, with soft growth that may quickly lignify. They may bear leaves or be leafless initially, depending on species and season. The vigor and duration of fresh growth depend on species, nutrition, and environmental conditions.

New shoots determine canopy structure, fruiting potential, and frost tolerance. Growers manage neuaustriebe through pruning, training, and fertilization to encourage desired patterns of growth while avoiding shading of inner parts or excessive vigor. After emergence, shoots may require support, especially on vines or fruit trees, and protection against late frosts during tender stages.

In grapevines, neuaustriebe appear after winter pruning and form the fruiting canes; in fruit trees, new shoots emerge from spur or latent buds and may need thinning. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with “new growth” in horticultural texts.