The First Day of Pruning

 There are many compelling reasons to delay the start of pruning vines. Academicians, consultants, and plant pathologists all caution against pruning early. But after a month of cellar and office work, my separation anxiety from the vineyard was too much to bear. I needed to get outside and I needed to reconnect with the vines.

 The first day of pruning is rarely productive. It is more involved with getting reacquainted with tools, wardrobe, and certain body parts. Pruning shears are sharpened once a wet stone is found. Saws have blades replaced if we are lucky enough to still have an extra one from last year. 

 Dressing properly is always problematic at first. The right socks, boots, gloves, hats and coveralls have to be coordinated with the weather. Temperature, sun and wind are all contributing and confounding factors. By mid-winter we intuitively know how to dress according to weather conditions. But early on we usually get it wrong and need to do at least one wardrobe change after the first 30 minutes of pruning.

 Pruning involves a lot of up and down. Legs, knees, and the lower back need to ease into it. But it is the right hand that requires the most nurturing. A couple of hours for the first day is enough. Any more than that results in the inability to hold anything the next day. The body may be slow to adapt, but the spirit is energized immediately.

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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal: December 3, 2022