Crush 2019

Winter
to thrive
By Jennifer Smith, DeerbustersCanada Deer Fence
Grapes are one of many fruits that can tolerate
frigid temperatures, but vineyard managers
will need to work diligently to protect plants
from harsh winter weather and visitation from wildlife.
Below are winter gardening tips for vineyard owners to
consider this winter in preparation for spring growing and
winemaking.
Think of prunes this winter
No, grape producers will not be eating prunes this winter,
but, they will need to prune back grape vines to avoid
cold damage and plant diseases. Some grape varieties can
withstand temperatures as low as -35 degrees Fahrenheit;
however, if growers neglect
pruning plants,
they may see
damage
to the woody trunk of the plant or dead vines that
will not produce buds in spring. For frost protection,
vineyard operators should mound one foot of soil around
grapevines in February to help insulate plants.
Wildlife movement concerns
In the winter, white-tailed deer face multiple challenges.
For one, they need to find food when natural resources
are scarce, and for another, hunters are trying to find
them to satisfy their own cravings. Therefore, deer will
walk onto landscapes in the early morning and evening
hours to brave chilly wind gusts and avoid being seen by
people. Since deer mating season occurred in November
and December, vineyard managers will see more deer
on properties and will need to act on deer management
strategies to prevent damage to vineyards.
While there are many types of
fences on the market, the best
fence for protecting vineyards
from wildlife damage is made
from either polypropylene or a
PVC-coated metal.