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Sultana vines were pruned to similar node numbers distributed either over 6-node spurs and two 12-node canes or over 12-node canes only. They produced similar amounts of fruit of similar sugar content over a seven year period.
Consequently, three new pruning methods called Cane-Spur, Split Cordon and Hedge were evolved where Sultana vines were partly or entirely pruned to spurs instead of canes.
Vines pruned by these methods yielded equally well or better than cane pruned vines while the time needed for pruning was reduced by up to 75%.
The possibilities are discussed of harvesting by machine the grapes that are produced by vines pruned according to these methods.
Pruning of Sultana Vines to Long Spurs
1982, American Journal of Enology and Viticulture, vol 33 issuw 4, pages 214-221
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