Armstrong Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm

Effects of Leaf Removal on Fruit Quality of Wine Grapes Grown in Iowa

Authors: Dennis N. Portz (Iowa State University) , Leah B. Riesselman (Iowa State University) , Crystal Seeley (Iowa State University) , Paul Beamer (Iowa State University) , Gail R. Nonnecke (Iowa State University)

  • Effects of Leaf Removal on Fruit Quality of Wine Grapes Grown in Iowa

    Armstrong Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm

    Effects of Leaf Removal on Fruit Quality of Wine Grapes Grown in Iowa

    Authors: , , , ,

Abstract

Leaf removal practices are common in many viticulture regions, leading to improved fruit quality. However, little research has been done on the benefits and challenges of leaf removal on cold-climate grape cultivars grown in the Upper Midwest that have high acidity. Potential benefits of leaf removal include increased canopy air circulation and sunlight exposure, decreased cluster disease, and improved flavor, pH, and titratable acidity (TA). Potential leaf removal challenges include fruit sunburn, fewer photosynthesizing leaves around clusters, production of fruit offflavors, and increased production cost due to labor-intensive leaf removal. The objective of this study was to determine if leaf removal around grape clusters is beneficial to improve fruit quality (soluble solids, pH, and TA) of grape cultivars grown in Iowa.

Keywords: RFR A1046, Horticulture

How to Cite:

Portz, D. N., Riesselman, L. B., Seeley, C., Beamer, P. & Nonnecke, G. R., (2012) “Effects of Leaf Removal on Fruit Quality of Wine Grapes Grown in Iowa”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports 2011(1).

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Published on
01 Jan 2012
Peer Reviewed