The procedure for planting a productive vineyard in the long term
Before building a vineyard, it is imperative to obtain all the necessary authorisations and bureaucratic concessions; this process is essential to ensure compliance with current laws and regulations. In addition to this aspect, the creation of a vineyard requires a thorough understanding of agricultural and viticultural techniques.
A meticulous approach at every stage is essential to ensure the sustainability of the vineyard in the long term and to ensure the health of the plants and the quality of the final harvest.
With this article, we at Gel Giussani want to provide a guide of the creation of a vineyard, from the preparation of the soil to the installation of structural elements such as piles and wires.
First step: the choice of soil and exposure to sunlight
The choice of soil and its exposure to sunlight and warmth is crucial for the healthy growth of vines, as they thrive in well-drained, loose soil. Therefore, it is essential to carry out a chemical-physical analysis of the soil to gain a detailed understanding of its composition in order to identify the need for specific fertilisation, adapt irrigation techniques and detect the presence of any root-damaging nematodes.
This analysis also provides valuable indications on the need for possible soil improvement measures, such as the addition of organic substances or pH modification, to create the ideal environment for vine growth.
Preparing the soil for the vineyard
To plant a vineyard from scratch, it is essential to prepare the soil properly; we can divide this step into several stages.
First of all, in the case of replanting of an existing vineyard, it is necessary to proceed with the grubbing up, that is, in the total removal of the old plants, their roots and all the structural materials used previously, such as piles and wires. It is an operation that requires care and precision, to avoid the persistence of pathogens in the soil.
Next, you can proceed with the breaking of the soil, that is, in the deep tillage of the soil chosen to significantly improve drainage and porosity.
To make the soil more workable and uniform, we proceed with the removal of large stones. This phase is also called stone removal.
Finally, soil fertilisation can be carried out, strictly following the results of the soil analysis carried out earlier. The objective of this last phase is to add the nutrients essential for the proper development of vine plants such as phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium.
The realization of the vineyard
After the preparation of the soil, you can proceed with the installation of the vineyard. Also in this case, it is necessary to follow some steps for the correct implantation:
- Squaring: this step is used to precisely define the boundaries of the area to be cultivated. It is important to ensure that the entire plantation is uniform and well organised. Squaring also helps to plan routes for agricultural machinery, ensuring that there is sufficient space for their movement.
- Staking: after the boundaries have been established, staking is carried out. This process consists of placing poles or stakes at the exact locations where vines will be planted. Staking is essential to ensure that there is the right distance between the plants and the rows, and to determine the exact number of piles needed for the entire vineyard.
Anchoring the vineyard
The anchoring phase serves to ensure the stability and strength of the structure, especially in windy conditions. It is carried out by placing anchors on the outer sides of each row. These tools are buried deep in the ground so that they can firmly anchor the vineyard head piles.
As the anchor descends into the ground, it also drags one end of the cable with it. In this way, when the anchor is put into traction, it provides stability to the head post. The free loop is then hooked onto the header pole.
In this context, we at Gel Giussani produce customised vineyard piles anchors with a kit for easy insertion into the ground.
The laying of piles in the vineyard
The laying of piles, whether wooden, iron or concrete, is another important step in the creation of a vineyard. These are placed using an auger, following the exact points defined during staking.
The head piles, which are essential for supporting the structure, are placed at the beginning and end of each row and are connected directly to the anchors to maximise stability. The intermediate piles, on the other hand, are installed along the inner row, providing additional support for the plants and supporting wires.
The correct arrangement and installation of piles is essential to ensure the strength and effectiveness of the vineyard structure.
The laying of vineyard wires
One of the most important steps in the creation of a vineyard is the laying of the wires. The tension of these threads is critical: they must be properly tensioned to ensure optimal support during the entire life cycle of the vineyard.
In this case, we at Gel Giussani supply 304 stainless steel vineyard wires in different diameters, designed to withstand the most adverse weather conditions for a long time. Further more: our catalogue also offers tendigel and curlet wires such as the L2, L3 and L4 models.
Laying rooted grape cuttings and hooks
Once the wire is stretched, the time comes for the laying of the grape cuttings, which need to be supported in the early stages of growth. In fact, in order to ensure the stability and proper growth of the seedling, it is necessary to provide each rooted vine with its specific rootstock tutors and their hooks.
We can supply the N25/N26 hooks for wire-tutors. They are chacterised by a high holding and strength capacity to avoid the wire-tutors to be displaced from its stock during the machinery workings in the vineyatd.
Laying vineyard spacers
Once the supporting structure is in place, it is necessary to think about how to contain the vegetation that will develop over time. Gel Giussani spring spreaders can be made for every category of piles (iron, wood and concrete) and model. In addition, they are designed to support double wires to contain the vegetation growing and ensure easier vineyard management.
The irrigation phase
Once the vineyard is established, thought must be given to the implementation of an irrigation system. The choice of irrigation method must reflect the specific needs of the vine varieties and soil characteristics.
Advanced technologies, such as drip irrigation, enable a targeted and efficient distribution of water, reducing waste and promoting a sustainable use of water resources. For the optimal organisation of irrigation hoses, it is important to use specific accessories, such as hose hangers, which facilitate the management and even distribution of water in the vineyard.
In our catalogue you can find numerous irrigation accessories, all made of high quality materials designed to fit any specific need.
Protecting the vineyard
Now that everything is ready, the vineyard needs to be properly protected, especially when it is in areas prone to weather phenomena such as hail.
The implementation of a vineyard anti-hail system will prevent physical damage to grapes and leaves and will be a strategic investment in the long run.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the creation of a vineyard requires dedication and a deep knowledge of many aspects: from the choice and preparation of the soil to the construction of the supporting structure and the implementation of the irrigation system.
At Gel Giussani, we have been working alongside winegrowers and plant designers for years to supply quality vineyard accessories; discover all our products in the catalogue now or contact us for a personal consultation!
