Each system has a place in the industry and with a list of advantages and disadvantages. Many converted Thompson Seedless vineyards will probably use the SunMaid South Side system. It provides the best assurance for complete raisin drying with late August cane cutting. Early ripening varieties such as Fiesta and DOVine should be considered in replant situations and new vineyard developments. Several weeks of advanced ripeness enables earlier cane cutting with sufficient fruit maturity.
Overhead systems seem to be popular for larger acreages.
They require larger developments to integrate trellis installation and new, low-profile equipment. Early ripening varieties are the most feasible due to slower drying rates than south side systems. Otherwise, Thompson Seedless plantings may require the use of drying emulsions, as practiced in Australia. Open Gable and Open Cross systems are only suited to early ripening varieties in order to complete the drying process. The Open Gable does not have complete canopy separation and the Open Cross has a more shaded fruiting side.