Abstract

Cane vigour control was introduced in Scotland during the late 1970s as an aid to the management of the very vigorous new cultivar Glen Clova. Investigations to find the best timing, frequency and method of vigour control under Scottish conditions have shown that a single treatment to remove the first flush of young canes at 10 - 20 cm height allows replacement canes to reach an adequate height by the end of the growing season. This treatment has been applied every spring for up to five years without unacceptable effects on cane production or fruit yield. Later treatment or removal twice every spring for several years has resulted in a rapid decline in numbers and height of replacement canes.
Treatment of young canes at 10 - 20 cm height is also optimal for efficient application and performance of the chemical found most suitable for cane vigour control - an oil formulation of dinoseb. Chemical treatment for control of cane vigour kills many emerged weeds, but restricts the range of herbicides which can be used in the plantation. Because of the altered phasing of growth, replacement canes are less prone than first-flush canes to attack by several pests and diseases. The introduction of vigour control treatment therefore necessitates a reappraisal of routine spray programmes in the raspberry crop.