Tropical viticulture in Brazil: technologies for table grape production

Presentation by: 
Ms. Patrícia Coelho de Souza Leão
Agronomic engineer. Viticulture researcher at Embrapa Semiárido.
Embrapa (Brazilian Agricultural Research Company)

Presentation title:
«Tropical viticulture in Brazil: technologies for the production of table grapes»

About the presentation:

Innovation and Advanced Techniques in Tropical Viticulture

Diversity in the Training and Pruning of Vines

The northwest region of Brazil is distinguished by its diversity in vine training and pruning techniques, adapting to variations in plant architecture to optimize production. Different types of pruning and training systems, such as the Y system and pergola, are used to ensure efficient distribution of branches and better light exposure.

Breaking Latency: A Key Challenge

One of the particularities of viticulture in tropical areas is the need to induce bud sprouting, since high temperatures prevent the natural breaking of dormancy. In this context, products such as hydrogenated cyanamide have become essential tools, although advances have made it possible to reduce the doses used, increasing the efficiency and sustainability of the process.

Precise Canopy and Cluster Management

Careful management of the canopy and clusters is crucial to ensure high quality production. This includes practices such as leaf and shoot thinning, cluster selection and thinning, and the use of growth regulators to optimize berry size. All of this, combined with advanced berry picking techniques, contributes to improving fruit productivity and quality.

Efficient Water and Nutrient Management

In a region where all viticulture depends on irrigation, efficient water and nutrient management is essential. The use of drip irrigation systems and precise application of fertilizers through irrigation water are standard practices, guided by soil and leaf analysis to ensure plants receive exactly what they need.

Harvest and Postharvest: The Final Touch

The harvest marks the culmination of the production cycle, and in the northwest region of Brazil, this is done with meticulous care. Monitoring the evolution of sugars and acids in the fruit guides the decision of when to harvest, ensuring that the grapes reach the market in the best possible conditions. After harvest, transportation and packaging processes are crucial to maintaining the quality of the fruit.

Conclusion: A Dynamic and Constantly Evolving Sector

The development of viticulture in the San Francisco Valley in Brazil is a testament to the dynamism and capacity for innovation of the sector. Collaboration between public and private actors has propelled the industry to new heights, rapidly adopting new varieties and technologies. In the last decade, we have witnessed significant diversification, not only in terms of table grape varieties, but also in juice production, marking the beginning of a new era in Brazilian tropical viticulture.