There are several ways to reduce the effects of heatwaves:
-
Introduce plant cover that does not compete significantly with the vines (see section on Grassing). Too much competition for water reserves from plant cover could accentuate the vines' water stress.
-
Avoid excessive leaf thinning, which could adversely affect the microclimate around the bunches, directly exposing them to sunlight in the event of very hot weather. Early but very light leaf thinning can encourage a gradual adaptation of the vines to high temperatures and luminosity and allow the impact of UVB rays to be reduced.
-
Irrigation is a preventive measure against heatwaves in wine regions where it is authorized (see Irrigation section).
-
Some green operations, such as trimming and topping, reduce canopy density. The reduction in the number of leaves reduces photosynthesis and evapotranspiration mechanisms. However, care must be taken that these operations are not too severe or poorly suited to the vines, as they can lead to the appearance of compensation phenomena and/or have a negative impact on the vines in colder weather.
-
Monitor the weather forecast when planning treatments. There is a higher risk of some phytosanitary products such as sulphur burning the leaves in very not weather.