Despite the dry year, Moldovan table grape producers are obtaining high quality yields in their vineyards, utilizing intensive vine training trellising such as tendone/pergola and gable systems.
Over the last few years, Moldovan producers have transitioned from exclusively using the “vertical espalier” vine training system, investing in pergola and gable technology that is yielding unprecedented fruit quality and volumes.
These trellising systems are new to Moldova, and according to the pioneers who have adopted the technologies, producers are increasing yields by three times while simultaneously maximizing fruit quality.
Mihai Lesan, a fruit and grape grower and member of the Fruit Producers and Exporters Association of Moldova, manages an intensive table grape plantation. "Thanks to the system, we have yielded 25-30 tons of grapes per hectare this year, compared to 10 tons from the traditional system. We are the first in Moldova to try this technology, and we have inspired other producers to adopt it as well. Three years ago, 80 percent of our grapes were sold on traditional markets [such as Russia]. Now, because of the premium quality and unique taste of our diverse grape varieties, alongside compliance with international standards and certifications, we have expanded our exports and are sending grapes to the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Romania, and other new markets,” told Lesan.
Moldova, Jupiter, and Muscat de Hamburg are the most planted varieties on tendone/pergola systems in Moldova. The harvest season has begun, and the grapes are stored and waiting for buyers.
Moldova produces more than 130,000 tons of table grapes per year and exports over 60 percent of its harvest. The Fruit Producers and Exporters Association of Moldova is available to match prospective buyers with outstanding producers.
For more information:
Mr. Adrian Cojocaru
Moldova Fruct
Tel: +373 69140614
Email: acojocaru@moldovafruct.md
www.moldovafruct.md