A Detailed Explanation of the Role and Methods of Winter Irrigation for Grapes
Grapes are a common fruit, and the grape plant itself is fairly drought-tolerant, but irrigation must be guaranteed at three key periods each year, and the more important one is winter irrigation. So when is the best time for winter irrigation in a vineyard, and what are the benefits? Let's take a look.
1. Timing of winter irrigation
Grape winter irrigation must not be done too early or too late. If winter irrigation is done too early, the temperature is still relatively high at that time, evaporation from the ground surface is high, which is not good for storing water and preserving soil moisture in the field, and it will reduce the fruit tree's ability to resist cold and freezing. But if winter irrigation is done too late, the temperature is too low, and the water applied at that time cannot seep down and will freeze on the surface, which will also make the root system more susceptible to freeze damage. To determine the right time for grape winter irrigation, you should go by the local climate: when the nighttime temperature drops below 0°C and the soil freezes, and then the soil can thaw after the daytime temperature rises, that is the best time for winter irrigation.
2. Role of winter irrigation
Winter irrigation can improve the fruit tree's cold resistance and ensure the grapevine safely overwinters. Winter irrigation can speed up the decomposition of organic fertilizer, help the root system absorb individual minerals, increase the tree's accumulation of nutrients, raise soil water content, and increase yield and quality. The water stored in the soil by winter irrigation can both improve freeze resistance and prevent drought in winter and early spring. In winter the wind is strong and the ground is dry, which often makes the soil loose with poor cohesion, while winter irrigation can keep the soil in a moist state, both insulating and retaining moisture and preventing freezing.
3. Amount of water for winter irrigation
The amount of water for winter irrigation should be such that all the water infiltrates underground on the day of irrigation. Generally, for young trees a penetration of 20-30 cm is suitable, while for mature trees a penetration of 70-100 cm is suitable, and 60%-80% of the soil's maximum water-holding capacity is appropriate. If it is too little, it cannot meet the tree's needs; if too much, it will also wash away fertilizer, not only causing fertilizer loss but also wasting time and effort. Generally, 2-3 hours after winter irrigation, you can dig a pit outside the tree plate and see the depth of water seepage.
4. Methods of winter irrigation
Winter irrigation can use the well irrigation method. Before well irrigation, dig channels in the tree plot along the tree rows, open the gate and release the water, irrigating fully and thoroughly, so the trees drink their fill, increasing root moisture and improving growth capacity. For 1-2 year old grapes, water should be applied to the roots; for perennial trees, build an oval-shaped earth ridge around them like a large basin, so that water does not flow outward. This can save water, concentrate the watering, and promote strong water infiltration.
The above is an introduction to the role and methods of grape winter irrigation. We hope it helps you. To learn more related knowledge, please keep following us.