In the UK, most growers use the Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) system for training their vines, incorporating trellis systems with two or three pairs of moveable foliage wires. This approach establishes a defined fruit zone and enhances fruit production. As the growing season progresses, effective canopy management is essential for maintaining a strong canopy at the business end of the season.
Getting started: Canopy management begins in winter during pruning. At VineWorks, we prefer to lower the bottom two pairs of wires to the lowest post tag while keeping the third pair at the top tag. This setup allows for easy shoot catching when lifting the lower wires. Wire lifting should occur when at least 80% of shoots reach the desired height. The top pair of wires is then slackened, rotated down towards the shoots, and tucked in before being hand-tensioned on moveable chains.
Tucking In and Wire Lifting: Tucking in and wire lifting is a simple yet crucial process. Lift all the shoots and secure them between the foliage wires to create a hedge shape. The fruit grows around the fourth and fifth buds, so the first wire should be raised above the fruiting zone. Continue to tuck in and lift as necessary throughout the season.
Managing Wire Slack: After lifting the wires, some slack may remain, causing shoots to hang out and snag on machinery. This can be mitigated with ‘C’ shape foliage clips, which help maintain a consistent canopy, promote uniform fruit ripening, and prevent foliage wires from entangling with trimmer blades.
Foliage Clip Placement: We recommend placing foliage clips centrally between vines in the trellis bay, avoiding positions adjacent to the 
end post. Some growers use two clips per bay on lower wires and three per bay on top wires, with a minimum of one clip per vine. It’s important to balance supporting the canopy without compacting it, as excessive clips can restrict airflow and increase disease risk.
Choosing Foliage Clips: Various manufacturers offer reusable or biodegradable foliage clips. While reusable clips require collection during pruning, biodegradable versions are often more practical as it is inevitable that clips attached to the wires will fall off at the end of the season and land on the ground. So, consider this in your choice.
By making thoughtful decisions about canopy management, you can ensure a healthy, productive vineyard with minimal disease risk and optimal fruit quality.
At VineWorks, we are dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for both our customers and the industry, one vine at a time.
Cherry Constable is Head of Retail at VineWorks.
Photo credit © VineWorks
