Dormant Rootlings
Callused cuttings are planted in the field nursery at the end of September. The following June, the esablished small vines are then lifted, sorted into grades and bundled. From there the vines are hydrated and hot water treated either at 50°C for thirty minutes or 54°C for five minutes (depending on what the client requires). The hot water treatment kills soil borne pathogens, fungus and phylloxera etc. After hot dipping the vines are cooled down in chlorinated water ready for packing. All hot water processors have completed a course in hot water treating.
Above: Hot dipping at Temple Bruer, note the three data loggers keeping close recordings on the temperature of the water. Temperature probes are also placed within the bundles in the cage.