Grapevine seedlings are an excellent choice for professional winegrowers wishing to start or expand their production. Whether you’re looking for classic varietals or disease-resistant varieties, it’s essential to be familiar with the different options available and their characteristics. In this article, we’ll look at the essential aspects of vine plants, their price, the best varieties to choose and tips for successful planting.
The price of vine plants: an investment in the future
The cost of vine plants can vary considerably depending on several factors:
- The chosen variety
- Plant age
- Quantity ordered
- The supplier
In general, prices for standard vine plants range from €2 to €10 per plant. Rarer or disease-resistant varieties can fetch higher prices, up to €15 per plant.
For professionals who buy in large quantities, it is possible to obtain attractive sliding-scale prices. It is advisable to compare offers from different specialist nurseries to find the best value for money.
The best vine varieties for your farm
The choice of variety will depend on several factors, including your terroir, the type of wine you wish to produce and disease resistance.
Among red grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon is widespread, producing structured, tannic wines. Merlot is appreciated for its suppleness and red fruit aromas. The delicate Pinot Noir is perfect for cooler regions. Syrah produces spicy, powerful wines.
As for white grape varieties, the versatile Chardonnay adapts to different terroirs. Sauvignon Blanc produces fresh, aromatic wines. Riesling is ideal for dry or sweet white wines, while Viognier brings floral and exotic fruit notes.
More and more winegrowers are turning to disease-resistant grape varieties. Bronner is a white variety resistant to mildew and powdery mildew. Muscaris is an aromatic white with good resistance to fungal diseases. Cabernet Cortis, a hardy red, is suited to cooler regions.
How to plant a vine: key steps
Successful planting is crucial to the future development of your vineyard. Here are the main steps to follow:
- Soil preparation: carry out a soil analysis and make any necessary amendments. Good drainage is essential.
- Choice of location: Make sure your plants get optimum exposure to the sun.
- Spacing: Respect the recommended distances between feet (generally 1 to 1.5 metres) and between rows (1.8 to 2.5 metres).
- Planting: Dig a hole of sufficient width and depth. Place the plant, taking care not to bury the grafting point.
- Watering and mulching: Water abundantly after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.
- Protection: Install stakes and rodent protection if necessary.
- Monitoring: Regularly monitor your young plants and provide the necessary care (pruning, treatments) as the seasons go by.
Protection against frost: a major challenge for winegrowers
Spring frost is a serious threat to vineyards. In response, innovative new solutions are emerging, such as the Ventigel system. This mobile anti-freeze tower, designed by French winegrowers, offers effective protection against low temperatures.
Ventigel stands out for :
- Mobility: easily transportable between plots
- Integrated heating system
- Adjustable height up to 4 metres
- Its capacity to protect around 2 hectares
For professionals looking for an ecological and effective solution to frost, Ventigel represents an interesting alternative to traditional methods such as straw burning.
Where can I find quality vine plants?
For professional winegrowers, sourcing from specialized and recognized nurseries is crucial. Consider the following options:
- Regional wine nurseries offer convenient access to plants adapted to the local terroir.
- Specialized agricultural cooperatives often offer a selection of plants and personalized support to winegrowers.
- Certified national suppliers guarantee top-quality plants, with a wide range of varieties.
When choosing a supplier, check certifications, especially for virus-free plants. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice tailored to your specific terroir and production objectives.
FAQ : Frequently asked questions about vine plants
What is the average price of a vine plant?
Prices can vary from €2 to €15, depending on the variety and quantity purchased. Buying in bulk generally results in lower prices.
What do you call a vine plant?
The term “cep de vigne” is generally used to designate an individual plant. The term “barbue” is used for young rooted plants.
What’s the best table grape to grow?
It depends on your region, but varieties like Chasselas, Muscat de Hambourg or Italia are often appreciated for their taste and productivity.
