As canopy growth increases through the season, leaf removal around the fruiting zone can play an important role in vineyard management. Opening the canopy improves airflow, allows sprays to reach the bunches more effectively and reduces humidity around the fruit – all key factors in managing disease pressure in UK vineyards. Exposing bunches to more sunlight can also help improve ripening, which can be particularly valuable in seasons where achieving full maturity is more challenging.
Mechanical leaf removal has become more common in UK vineyards as growers look for efficient ways to manage canopy growth across larger areas, helping reduce disease risk earlier in the season while also improving picking quality and efficiency when used ahead of harvest.
With two different methods generally used, Provitis offers two machines suited to different timings and vineyard conditions:
- Leaf Stripper LR 350
- Leaf Remover LB 260.
The Leaf Remover LB 260 uses controlled airflow to remove leaves and is often used at targeted points in the season, particularly when berries are peppercorn size or smaller. Two interchangeable nozzles allow the machine to be adjusted for different canopy densities and grape varieties. The airflow can also help remove petals post flowering which might otherwise become trapped between berries in developing bunches.
The Leaf Stripper LR 350 is the more widely used option in UK vineyards and offers a longer working window through the season. Known for its reliability and efficiency, it provides consistent mechanical defoliation and allows growers to quickly open up the fruiting zone as the canopy develops.
By allowing growers to remove leaves quickly and consistently across larger areas, mechanical systems are becoming an increasingly useful tool for managing canopy density while reducing reliance on manual labour.
Both types are available to hire or buy from Vitifruit Equipment.
