Grapes production and its management with emphasis on plant protection, fertilizer application, harvesting, and residue management: a comprehensive review

Abstract Grapes (Vitis vinifera) are a globally important high-value crop produced for fresh consumption, wine, and processed derivatives. Growing pressure from labor shortages, climate variability, and sustainability demands has intensified the need for mechanization and precision agriculture in viticulture. This review synthesizes current practices, technological advancements, and research gaps across major operational domains, including nutrient management, plant protection, canopy operations, harvesting, and post-pruning residue handling. Advances such as sensor-integrated fertigation systems, machine-vision and AI-assisted sprayers, autonomous and semi-autonomous harvesters, and mechanized residue management tools are critically examined in terms of performance, applicability, and suitability for diverse vineyard scales. A comparative assessment of conventional versus emerging technologies highlights potential benefits, including 20–45% reductions in input use, improved operational efficiency, and significant labor savings, particularly in large commercial vineyards. However, widespread adoption remains limited by high capital costs, fragmented landholdings, inadequate technical support, low digital literacy, and weak policy incentives. The review integrates interdisciplinary research, technological trends, and field-level experiences to identify key barriers and priority areas for innovation. Overall, this work provides strategic insights and a forward-looking framework to guide the development, scaling, and adoption of sustainable, efficient, and resilient viticultural systems, especially for growers in resource-constrained regions. Graphical Abstract