canepruning

Cane pruning is a horticultural pruning method most commonly associated with grapevines (Vitis species). In cane pruning, the previous growing season’s growth is removed during the vine’s dormant period, and one or two long canes with a specific number of buds are retained to carry the next year’s growth. This approach contrasts with spur pruning, where short stubs or spurs are left along a cordon.

The practice is performed when vines are dormant, typically in winter in temperate regions or in the opposite season in the southern hemisphere. The grower selects healthy, well-positioned canes and removes all other wood. Each retained cane is cut to a length that preserves a target number of buds, commonly ranging from about 8 to 15 buds per cane, depending on vine vigor, training system, and regional climate. One or two canes per vine are usually kept, and they are tied to the trellis in the desired alignment for the coming season.

Principles and goals include regulating yield, ensuring balanced bud fruiting, and improving air circulation and light exposure for fruit. Cane pruning requires assessment of vine vigor, proper cane selection, and accurate cut placement to avoid over- or under-pruning. It often works in conjunction with specific training systems, such as bilateral canopies or single Guyot, and its effectiveness depends on climate, soil, and disease pressure. Tools used are sharp pruning shears or loppers, with clean cuts to minimize wound size.

In other cane crops, pruning practices exist but the term “cane pruning” is less standardized and may refer more broadly to removal of older canes or stalks to encourage new growth.