View source for Vine cultivation

'''Vine cultivation''' refers to the agricultural practices involved in growing [[grapevines]] for [[wine production]]. It encompasses the selection of vineyard sites, [[vine training]], [[canopy management]], and [[soil]] and [[water management]], all of which influence grape quality and yield.<ref>Winkler, Cook, Kliewer & Lider, ''General Viticulture'', University of California Press, 1974.</ref>

== Background ==  
Grapevine cultivation has been practised for thousands of years, adapting over time to changing climates, soils, and cultural traditions. Modern viticulture combines ancient techniques with advances in plant science, soil analysis, and climate modelling to optimise both quantity and quality of production.<ref>Robinson (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Wine'', Oxford University Press, 2015.</ref> Today, vine cultivation is a specialised branch of [[viticulture]], tailored specifically to the requirements of [[wine grapes]].

== Site and Soil Selection ==  
The choice of site is fundamental to vine cultivation. Factors such as climate, soil composition, [[slope]], and exposure to sunlight determine the vine’s growth and fruit character.<ref>Jackson, ''Wine Science: Principles and Applications'', Academic Press, 2020.</ref> Well-drained soils, often of low fertility, are generally preferred as they limit vigour and concentrate grape [[flavours]]. Local [[terroir]] strongly shapes the resulting [[wine]].

== Training and Canopy Management ==  
Training systems, from traditional bush vines to modern trellises, influence sunlight exposure, air circulation, and mechanisation. Canopy management, including [[pruning]], [[shoot]] positioning, and leaf removal, regulates the balance between yield and fruit ripening, affecting both grape chemistry and disease resistance.<ref>FAO, “Viticulture & grape production—resources”, fao.org.</ref>  

== Water and Nutrient Management ==  
Water availability is critical, with vines often cultivated under controlled stress to enhance grape quality. [[Irrigation]] practices vary from dry farming to drip irrigation. [[Nutrient management]], particularly nitrogen levels, is monitored to ensure balanced vine growth and optimal fruit composition.<ref>Winkler, Cook, Kliewer & Lider, ''General Viticulture'', 1974.</ref>  

== Vineyard Practices and Sustainability ==  
Vine cultivation also includes soil cultivation, cover cropping, pest and disease control, and harvesting strategies. Increasing emphasis is placed on sustainable and organic practices, reducing chemical inputs while preserving vineyard biodiversity.<ref>Robinson (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Wine'', 2015.</ref>  

== See also ==  
* [[Viticulture]]  
* [[Terroir]]  
* [[Canopy management]]  

== References ==  
{{reflist}}  

[[Category:Viticulture]]  
[[Category:Wine terminology]]