Recent years have exhibited weather patterns that resulted in severe stress in our vineyard. 2013 was officially the driest year in recorded history and then 2014 became the warmest year in recorded history. This double ‘whammy’ will have long term effects on grape yields, vine vigour and general vine health.

We took an aggressive approach to our soil amelioration program this year and, along with 7.5” of very timely rainfall, have seen some excellent results.

The process involved cultivation of every other row. The reason for this is to maintain solid ground in opposing rows to allow equipment access for spraying etc. Additionally, the cultivation ‘prunes’ the vines’ surface roots to encourage more feeder root growth and it would be potentially distressing to do this on both sides of the vine. The rows are single tyne deep-ripped about 12” from the vine trunks, followed by a patented floating plate beneath the soil that lifts sections of soil vertically to ensure greater penetration of air, moisture and nutrients.

We applied 1800 tons of high grade compost across the 520 acres of vines.

To see how well it works compare these two photos of me standing in the mid-rows. The difference in the mid-row crop is remarkable. Mid row crops are used to provide organic bulk back to the soil and raise the available free nitrogen levels. The crops are eventually mowed and disked into the soil.

WITHOUT SOIL AMELIORATON

WITH SOIL AMELIORATON