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1.2.2.c What are good seedling preparation practices?

Both before and during the planting operation, it is advisable to:

  • Rehydrate the plants

  • Cut the root tips before planting to promote a deeper root development

  • Adapt the planting specifically for each plant type: larger plants shouldn’t be planted deeper than 25 cm. Potted plants should be planted manually to ensure fine soil is put at the base of the planting hole as well as above the plant. Plants in super-sized pots have a highly developed root system; therefore, it is advisable to loosen the roots once they are taken out of their individual pots to avoid dense root development.

  • Watering immediately following planting: this is a crucial step that helps to guarantee the success of each rootstalk and helps it recover from the stress of planting.

  • Fertilization must be monitored: as it is non-compulsory option for the seedlings, a soil analysis will give a better breakdown of the soil composition. In a rich soil, fertilization is optional. On the other hand, in a poor soil, a fertiliser can be applied. Under no circumstances should the roots come into contact with the fertilizer. However, compost can be added to the soil at the bottom of the hole before planting, which can improve the soil structure and facilitate root development. It is not recommended to use mineral fertilizer, especially nitrogen-based ones, as they may burn the roots and/or leaves when applied to the leaves.

How should the vines be positioned?

When planting, the young vine's buds should ideally be placed in the extension of the row. This facilitates the shaping of the plant during the initial winter pruning when it is necessary to create the framework suitable for bearing a crop. It also limits the risk of vegetative development outside the row.
At Château Latour, all the plants are oriented in the same direction, which means that the pruning scar is always on the same side. Consequently, this makes formative pruning easier and it also serves to preserve sap flow.

Mechanical or manual planting?

Planting can be mechanical or manual and will depend on the choice as well as the logistical and economical means of the winemaker.

When it is done manually, it can be done with a pickaxe, which helps create the hole and easily position the plant. Auger planting exists but is limited to a depth of 10-15cm and the hole is smaller than one created with a pickaxe (risks of smoothing the edges of the hole on a clay plot). Other tools are also suitable for manual planting, notably the fork or the peg, but they are less suitable on heavy soils and do not dig deep holes.

Mechanical planting is faster and allows for digging, planting, staking and earthing-up in one single operation. The machine is usually guided by a laser. This type of planting is suitable for all types of soil and plants but can only be used on properly drained soil.

Plantation mécanique
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