Chap. 36 How Grapes Are Protected From the Ravages of Insects
Stays, too, should be given to the vine for it to take hold of and climb upwards, if they are taller than it. (24.) Espaliers3166 for vines of a high quality should be cut, it is said, at the Quinquatria,3167 and when it is intended to keep the grapes, while the moon is on the wane. We are assured, moreover, that those which are cut at the change of the moon, are exempt from the attacks of all insects.3168 According to another system, it is said that vines should be pruned by night at full moon, and while it is in Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, or Taurus: and that, in general, they ought to be planted either when the moon is at full or on the increase. In Italy, ten workmen will suffice for one hundred jugera of vineyard.