06/17/2026
Let the leaf pulling begin!
We've got berries! That means it's time to start removing leaves from the fruiting zone on the east side of the plants. Leaf removal is all done by hand here and is an important management technique. It helps promote air circulation which helps prevent mildew and other pathogens from getting established. It allows sunlight to strike the young fruit which improves phenolic ripening. It also allows sunlight to stimulate the bud wood at the base of the spurs which improves next years growth. Another benefit is that it allows any sprays that we need to apply can pe*****te the canopy more easily improving effectiveness. And, it's fun to hear the "Pop, Pop, Pop" as you work your way through the vineyard rows. We'll pull leaves on the west side of the rows in the late summer to allow the sun to affect those grapes without subjecting them to the much hotter afternoon sun during the midsummer weeks.
If you're interested in learning more, come visit us and ask just one question and Marty will talk your ears (and possibly leaves) off for an hour or more!
You can schedule a vineyard tour on our website. Just Google "Ruby Magdalena Vineyards" and visit the website!
#✌❤️🍇
