Page 63 - Grapevine JanFeb 2022

Around The Vineyard

that conventional farming through the use of syn-
thetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and insec-
ticides kills life in the soil. This can result in deep
compaction and loss of structure in topsoil, water
runoff, erosion and the loss of farmable land. This
consulting company specializes in the conversion
and establishment of vineyards to organic, bio-
dynamic and regenerative farming systems, with
services ranging from “a la carte” to all-inclusive for
each vineyard’s unique needs.

“Simply put, conventional farming is not sustain-
able because it degrades the soil continuously,”
Winkler said. “In opposition, organic and espe-
cially biodynamic methods regenerate the soil by
increasing microbial life, therefore organic matter,
water retention capacity and vine nutrient uptake.
Organic, regenerative and biodynamic farming
allow us to grow a premium crop every year, while
replenishing the soil so it can continue to produce
for generations to come.”

Little from Acadian said that newer and non-tradi-
tional products can address the many grape-grow-
ing challenges become more numerous every year,
such as improving plant and soil health and also
aiding in the long-term sustainability of the vine- VINEYARD MULCHERS
yard.
Custom Built • Built To Last
“Acadian Plant Health’s products are a good fit for Whatcom Manufacturing’s Mulch Spreaders are specifically engi-
grape-growers looking for a more organic/sustain- neered for fast, easy & precise mulch application in your vineyard.
able management program or conventional pro- Our Spreaders are available in multiple sizes with numerous
gram,” Little said. “They offer a range of benefits options and features to accommodate all of your application needs.
with one product, and application programs that
can be tailored to achieve different objectives in
a vineyard, making it easily adaptable to different
growing styles and environments. The healthier
plants are less susceptible to stress, including dis-
ease, and are more productive.”

Vadon from BioSafe pointed out that even if a
vineyard defines itself as “conventional,” organic
products may still be best fit for certain applica-
tions.

“In many cases, it has been documented that
botrytis, powdery and downy mildews are devel- Phone: 360-354-3094
oping resistance to certain FRAC groups,” Vadon info@whatcommfg.com
said. “Fungicide resistance management starts with Website: www.whatcommfg.com

877-892-5332 The Grapevine • January - February 2022 Page 61

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