| Pruning |
| Pruned chardonnay vine |
Pruning
In January Natalio begins pruning the grapevines and fruit trees when it is not raining, then ties canes of the pruned vines to train them. Each year he is anxious to get started, always competitive with himself on how quickly he gets done.
Still, he is patient once he begins. He studies each before cutting, thinking of not only of the health of the vine and this coming year’s fruit, but of next year’s as well. Natalio’s psychic relationship with the vines affords this larger perspective and continuity from year to year.
As long as the vines have not budded out, which will not happen for several weeks, the goats are allowed in the vineyard to browse. (Goats love grape leaves!)
