Abiding in the Vine: The Pain of Pruning

Proper vineyard management requires pruning. Grape vines can be pruned after leaf fall and prior to bud break in the spring. There are some instances when pruning extends into the growing season in order to control the canopy (all growth of the vine above ground). Some growers utilize different training and pruning systems depending on the variety of grape grown and vine vigor.

When tending my vineyard, I used the bilateral cordon method. And yes, pruning is technical and requires know-how. Without providing too much information beyond the scope of this study, we will keep it simple and general.

Once pruning begins, up to one third of the vine may be trimmed away. All dead, diseased, tangled branches and dying wood is removed from the vine. The goal is to leave two or three spurs on each new branch. All fruit is produced on the last year’s growth.

the pain of pruning — Photo by arpad-czapp-neb w via unsplash

All cuttings from the pruning are removed and burned in order to reduce pest and disease. A healthy vine is left ready for the growing season and fruit production.

Spiritually Speaking

pruning is painful. But oh, so necessary. Pruning provides necessary correction from God, our Father. And yes, it can feel severe.

The Master Viticulturist comes with sharp shears to cut away wandering branches that are unproductive. Or the diseased, sin-sick spurs that cause us to stumble or stray from our Beloved. And then there’s the branch of self-will with uncontrolled, wild growth taking a path of it’s own. The end result is hurt, pain and self-destruction if not corrected.

The wild spur starts out with new leaves. They look innocent enough. But God alone is able to discern what will bring a sweet, plentiful harvest.

Yes, not my will but God’s will.

Afterall, we are all hoping and praying for a plentiful harvest. Aren’t we?