Early leaf removal increases flower abscission in Vitis vinifera 'Semillon'

Abstract

Leaf removal was applied to Semillon vines in two different vineyards at different growth stages. Percentage fruit set and yield were reduced by leaf removal treatments. The magnitude of the reduction in yield was due to a decrease in bunch weight which was largely due to an increase in flower abscission and possibly the proportion of seedless berries and LGOs. The greatest reduction in yield was achieved when leaf removal was applied before and at the start of flowering.