The Sylvoz system is one of the most widely adopted grapevine training methods, particularly suitable for fertile, moist soils and vigorous vine varieties. Originating in the Savoy region, it is highly appreciated for the balance it offers between vine growth and fruit production. As a long-pruning system, Sylvoz ensures a harmonious canopy and promotes both yield and quality.
The Sylvoz grape trellis system is a smart choice for vineyard managers seeking a productive and long-lasting solution. Thanks to its structured layout and the use of long canes, this system optimizes vine growth and cluster exposure, while supporting mechanical operations where needed. To ensure stability and durability, it’s essential to integrate the right vineyard trellis posts and accessories.
Sylvoz grapevine trellis system
Features of the Sylvoz training system for vineyards
Key components for a Sylvoz trellis installation
A complete Sylvoz setup requires robust materials. Intermediate posts – available in galvanized steel or Corten steel – support the main canopy structure. For added tension and durability, end posts like the Strong or Mini Strong are installed at the ends of each row.
To maintain wire tension and prevent sagging, high-tensile trellis wire is used, typically galvanized for corrosion resistance. Anchoring the structure securely involves using helical vineyard anchors or concrete post anchors, depending on soil type. Additional components such as vineyard wire tensioners, grape trellis hooks (e.g., the “Livio” hook), and anti-sink base plates for end posts ensure a reliable and efficient vineyard system.
Recommended spacing and setup for Sylvoz
Row spacing in the Sylvoz system typically ranges from 3 to 4 meters, while vine spacing along the row varies between 2 and 3 meters. This layout promotes ideal sunlight exposure and airflow, helping prevent fungal diseases and encouraging optimal fruit development.
Trellis posts should be made of galvanized steel and measure between 2 and 2.5 meters above ground. The spacing and structural integrity of the posts are crucial to supporting multiple wire levels, ensuring long-term durability and effective vine training.
The use of trellis wire tensioners is recommended to maintain consistent wire tension and prevent sagging over time, especially during periods of high vegetative load.
What is the Sylvoz system?
The Sylvoz system is a grapevine training method characterized by long pruning and a regular distribution of fruiting canes along a horizontal cordon. In this setup, the trunk of the vine is bent and fixed along the main wire, while renewal shoots are trained vertically along the third wire.
The goal of the Sylvoz system is to maximize fruit quality while ensuring an organized and efficient management of the canopy. This system allows for better light exposure and air circulation, which contributes to healthier vines and higher yields.
Characteristics of the Sylvoz system
In the Sylvoz trellis system, vine trunks reach a height of 1.5 to 2 meters and are bent along a horizontal cordon of 2 to 3 meters, positioned at the second wire level. Fruiting canes with 8 to 12 buds are spaced approximately 40 to 70 cm apart. A third wire, located at about 2 meters above ground, supports the vertical growth of the shoots.
The system relies on galvanized steel vineyard posts measuring 2 to 2.5 meters above ground, spaced 6 meters apart along the row. These posts support 5 or 6 trellis wires, providing excellent structural stability and support throughout the vineyard.
Pruning
The pruning process in the Sylvoz vineyard trellis system begins with short pruning during the first two years, where only a single shoot is retained to reach the second wire level. By the third year, upper shoots are trained to grow along the upper section of the trunk. In the fourth year, the strongest shoot is selected and bent along the second wire to form the permanent horizontal cordon.
Advantages of the Sylvoz system
Excellent sun exposure
Thanks to the horizontal layout of the fruiting arms and optimal airflow, vines receive maximum sunlight, promoting even ripening.
High resistance
Well-suited for fertile and fresh soils, this system effectively controls vigorous vegetation, increasing productivity without compromising grape quality.
Mechanization-ready
Although manual pruning is required in the early stages, the Sylvoz system is compatible with mechanical pruning and harvesting, improving operational efficiency.
High yield and quality
With proper exposure and irrigation, grape clusters develop with excellent quality and uniform ripeness, ensuring abundant harvests.
Other vineyard training systems
Guyot system
The most common vertical trellis training system is the Guyot method, adopted in about 35% of Italian vineyards. This system typically uses Corten or galvanized steel vineyard posts, measuring between 2 and 2.3 meters above ground, spaced approximately 5 meters apart. The first trellis wire is positioned 1 to 1.2 meters from the ground, with additional wires placed around 40 cm apart from each other.
Casarsa system
Derived from the Sylvoz method, the Casarsa system features a vine trunk height of 1.5 to 1.8 meters, which extends horizontally with short fruiting arms that arch naturally downward. This setup supports both mechanical pruning and harvesting, making it ideal for moderately fertile soils. The system typically uses galvanized steel vineyard posts approximately 2.5 meters high, with post spacing of 6 to 8 meters along the row.
Everything you need for your Sylvoz system
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