Damage to Grapes - Ask Extension
Attached is a photo of damage to Brianna grapes in my home vineyard. What is making the "inverted-V" slashes seen on the grapes in the middl...
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Damage to Grapes #845527
Asked August 14, 2023, 6:55 AM EDT
Attached is a photo of damage to Brianna grapes in my home vineyard. What is making the "inverted-V" slashes seen on the grapes in the middle of the bunch? What can I do to prevent such damage? Thanks.
Allegany County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi- we think this is likely physical cracking/splitting of the fruit skin, rather than injury from insects or birds. This occurs when grape skins have toughened and plants then take up a large amount of water during heavy rain or irrigation. It's a transitory issue that hopefully will not affect too much of your harvest.
https://ipm.missouri.edu/MEG/2019/8/berrySplitting/
Jon
https://ipm.missouri.edu/MEG/2019/8/berrySplitting/
Jon