Current Approaches in Viticulture Mechanization

Abstract

Viticulture, known as grape cultivation, has a rich history spanning thousands of years. Grapevine is one of the oldest fruit species cultivated in the world and is still one of the most basic agricultural activities today. Throughout the centuries, techniques in vineyard management have evolved following advances in technology and machinery. In recent years, especially the wine industry has been experiencing a significant transition to viticulture mechanization due to increasing productivity, cost reduction and the gradual decrease of skilled labour force. This transition allows cultural processes in vineyard cultivation to be carried out more effectively both in a timely manner and in accordance with its purpose. In addition, with the introduction of technology, this mode of production becomes more attractive for the young population, which tends to move away from agricultural activities. In this article, prominent mechanization applications in grape cultivation and current approaches on a global scale are examined.Viticulture, known as grape cultivation, has a rich history spanning thousands of years. Grapevine is one of the oldest fruit species cultivated in the world and is still one of the most basic agricultural activities today. Throughout the centuries, techniques in vineyard management have evolved following advances in technology and machinery. In recent years, especially the wine industry has been experiencing a significant transition to viticulture mechanization due to increasing productivity, cost reduction and the gradual decrease of skilled labour force. This transition allows cultural processes in vineyard cultivation to be carried out more effectively both in a timely manner and in accordance with its purpose. In addition, with the introduction of technology, this mode of production becomes more attractive for the young population, which tends to move away from agricultural activities. In this article, prominent mechanization applications in grape cultivation and current approaches on a global scale are examined.