The Diamond Trellis System: Boosting Table Grape Quality, Yield & Efficiency 🍇
- Stefano Franchini
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 12
If you’re a grape grower in Australia, especially in regions like Sunraysia or the Riverland, you may have heard of the diamond trellis system. This innovative setup is fast becoming the go-to for high-performance vineyards. Why? Because it’s delivering real improvements in fruit quality, marketable yield, and labour efficiency—all while supporting better disease management.
The Diamond Trellis System: An Overview
This system uses an open-canopy, overhead structure where vines are trained into a diamond shape. Fruit hangs freely in the middle zone while leaves grow outwards, improving:
Airflow for disease reduction
Sunlight penetration for better ripening
Ease of access for pruning, spraying, and harvesting
🍇 Key Benefits for Table Grape Growers
1. Better Fruit and Vine Health
More sunlight, less shade: This improves photosynthesis and speeds up ripening.
Even ripening: It helps berries colour and mature more evenly.
Cleaner clusters: Improved airflow reduces the risk of powdery mildew and Botrytis.
2. Less Labour, Better Efficiency
Sprays work better: Clear access to clusters improves spray coverage.
Less thinning and leaf removal: A balanced canopy means less manual work.
Faster harvesting: Grapes hang at an ergonomic level—easy to see and pick.
3. More Saleable Fruit
Up to 92% packout rates: No scarring, bruising, or sunburn from tangled vines.
Premium quality: Better suited to top-end retail programs.
Perfect for seedless: Especially varieties like Autumn Crisp & Sweet Globe.
4. Long-Term Profitability
While setup costs are higher, growers see a return on investment within 5–7 years thanks to:
Higher marketable yield
Lower disease costs
Reduced labour input
🌟 Our New Diamond Trellis!
Engineered for superior vine positioning and improved light penetration, enhancing fruit exposure and yield production, the Diamond Trellis is our most popular product.
Key features:
Hoop attachment specifically designed to support protective vine covers.
Easy Assembly: Made from durable mild steel, it’s designed for quick and secure installation.
Adjustable Arms
Comes flat packed in parts or assembled.
🌱 Growing Adoption Across Australia
More table grape growers in Australia are trialling the diamond trellis on new blocks or converting old pergolas.
Success stories include Grapecare & Trigg customers—improved fruit quality and reduced disease pressure.
The design also works with plastic covers, helping manage sunburn or rain damage—especially important for horticulture in Australia’s hot climate.
The Future of Grape Growing
As the industry evolves, the diamond trellis system is becoming a standard. Growers are recognising the benefits of this innovative approach.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
The diamond trellis system not only enhances productivity but also promotes sustainability. By improving airflow and reducing disease, growers can use fewer chemicals. This is a significant step towards environmentally friendly farming practices.
Economic Benefits
Investing in a diamond trellis can lead to substantial economic benefits. With higher yields and better quality fruit, growers can command premium prices in the market. This translates to increased profitability over time.
Community and Knowledge Sharing
As more growers adopt the diamond trellis system, a community is forming. Growers share their experiences, tips, and best practices. This knowledge sharing is invaluable for newcomers to the industry.
🍇 Final Thoughts
For growers chasing premium fruit quality, better labour efficiency, and sustainable profits, the diamond trellis system is worth serious consideration.
Need help?
Grapecare offers support, infrastructure, and advice to help you make the switch with confidence.
We can also provide custom packaging, harvest equipment, and consumables tailored specifically for table grape growers and other fresh fruit industries.
👉 If you’re eager to improve vineyard resilience and yield top-quality grapes, we'd love to talk!
📞 Contact us today or visit grapecare.au to learn more.
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