Every year, a mortality rate of vines in the vineyards is caused mainly by wood diseases (scab, cork rot). The specifications of the AOCs require that no more than 20% missing vines per hectare be allowed. It is therefore imperative to replace the dead vines with «welded grafted» vines. The traditional regional grape varieties (Merlots, Cabernets…) (known as «frank vines») are grafted onto American grafting ports (immunized against phylloxera) to protect them from this destructive insect. This is called the “omate” graft. This graft is covered with wax to solidify and protect it from diseases and insects.
There are two types of welded implants: low or high. At Château de Portets we prioritize the high-welded implant for the following reasons:
– Since the graft is higher, it will be better protected from diseases that come from the ground.
– During soil work, the graft will be less likely to be damaged by the ploughs that turn the soil over.
– Allows protection of the leaves from animals (rabbits…)
– The risk of overpayment is eliminated.
Buds only form on the French rootstock (Merlots, Cabernets…) and not on the American rootstock. If the graft is low, the buds form near the ground and may turn into roots. The French rootstock will then no longer be protected by the American rootstock.
The mound of earth at the base of the plant is made of fertile soil that is conducive to good root development and better plant growth. This mound is maintained by a biodegradable net. Since the soil is compacted before the planting, the young plants also have roots to help them establish themselves in the soil.
