Mastering the Guyot Training and Pruning Technique for Grapes

The Guyot method is widely adopted in vineyards and is also suitable for larger gardens and small plots. This technique involves planting vines in rows and training them along horizontal wires, maximizing space and yield.

Quick Facts
– Ideal for table and vinifera grapes grown outdoors
– Particularly suitable for large-scale cultivation
– Vines are planted in structured rows
– Requires a permanent support system of horizontal wires
– The horizontal “arms” are pruned each winter and replaced with new growth
– New growth is shaped in spring and summer

What is Guyot Training?

The Guyot method is a popular training system implemented in both small and large vineyards. This method supports the growth of vines along posts and wire frameworks, making it ideal for setups where multiple rows can be cultivated for abundant harvests.

The technique relies on “renewal,” where fruit-bearing lateral branches (or arms) are pruned back each winter and replaced by new, horizontally grown shoots that will produce grapes in the coming summer. A double Guyot vine features two lateral fruiting branches trained along the lowest wire, while a single Guyot vine has only one arm.

Why is it Called the Guyot Method?

The Guyot training system was developed in the 19th century by Dr. Jules Guyot, a French physician and viticulturist. It is primarily used in cooler grape-growing climates across Europe, as it regulates the natural growth of the vine and promotes consistent grape production in limited space.

When Should You Prune?

– Main Pruning in Winter (late November to December): Cut vines when they are completely dormant; pruning later may cause the plant to bleed sap, weakening the vine.
– Spring and Summer: Shape new growth during the growing season.

Support System and Planting

Support System
– Vines are arranged in rows using robust posts and wire frames.
– Ideally, the rows should run north to south, with a spacing of 1.5–1.8 meters between them.
– Use sturdy posts (1.6–1.8 m tall) spaced 4–6 m apart. End posts should have a diagonal brace at a 45° angle for stability; tension wires can support longer rows.
– Strong, galvanized wires (2–3 mm in diameter) should be strung between the posts. The first wire must be positioned 50–80 cm above the ground, with subsequent wires spaced 15–20 cm apart, and additional wires spaced at intervals of 30–40 cm.

Planting
– Plant vines during their dormant phase (late fall to spring).
– For bare-rooted vines: Place the roots just below the soil surface, ensuring the grafting point stays above ground level.
– For potted plants: Plant them at the same depth as they were in the pot.

Guyot Training of Young Vines

Year 1 – Winter After Planting
– Tie the main shoot to a bamboo stake (1.8 m high) securely attached to the horizontal wires.
– Trim the main shoot to two vigorous buds, about 15 cm above the ground.

Year 2 – Winter
– Shorten the main shoot to the height of the lowest wire, leaving at least three healthy buds.

Year 3 – Winter
– Form the “arms”:
– For double Guyot: Bend one shoot to the left and one to the right, attaching them to the lowest wire.
– For single Guyot: Bend one shoot either to the left or right.
– Trim the arms to 60–90 cm to prevent interference with adjacent vines.

Guyot Training of Established Vines (from Year 4 Onward)

– In winter, prune the horizontal arms that bore fruit.
– Choose two to three new shoots to form into arms for the following year.
– Trim the new arms again to a length of 60–90 cm.

Leaf Removal and Renovation

– In September, remove some leaves around the grapes to enhance sunlight exposure, promoting ripening and reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
– After six to eight years, remove old “stumps” and replace them with healthy new shoots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my vine bleed sap after pruning?
Pruning in late winter (after January) can cause sap loss. Prevent this by completing the main pruning by December.

What should I do if frost damages young shoots?
In frost-prone areas, delay pruning until March or April to ensure safer and later bud emergence.

With the knowledge of the Guyot method, you can create a fruitful vineyard or garden filled with luscious grapes. With a little care and attention, your vines can thrive for years to come. Happy grape growing! 🍷🌱