Rachis formation

[Marctee]

Here in BC the start of the growing season has been incredible...we must be 3 weeks to a month ahead already.

As you can see in the picture grape clusters are already forming in significant numbers. This is the third year but we are treating it like the second due to damage in first year and poor pruning in 2nd (still learning here). We consider that we have now formed the trunk and are going to expect our first crop next year.

In any case is the grape cluster formation normal so early in shoot growth?

 

[grapeman]

Yes it is normally this early in shoot development for the clusters to appear. They are visible from almost the moment of the shoots beginning to open. You will probably want to remove most or all of them this year. Wait until they are easy to get at without damaging the rest of the shoot and just pinch them off with your nails or a pair of pruning shears. The vines are still very small so they will normally be removed to allow the vine to establish well this year. Next year you should be able to get a pretty good crop.