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VINEYARD REVIEW<br />
Continued from Page 28<br />
management, so staving off weeds can either be a<br />
proactive endeavor, or a reactive one that can leave<br />
growers—and harvest crews—battling weeds.<br />
Cultivation<br />
With this method, weeds can either be uprooted or<br />
buried, with uprooting working better for larger weeds,<br />
and burial working better for smaller ones. Keeping<br />
the depth of grape roots in mind, cultivation ideally<br />
destroys weed roots to remove current plants without<br />
turning over the soil enough to allow for germination<br />
of new seeds. Established perennial weeds will need<br />
more attention in order to remove them, and growers<br />
may need a special mechanism to protect vine roots.<br />
Flaming<br />
"When a burst of heat is<br />
applied at 130°F, the plant’s<br />
cell wall ruptures. This is most<br />
effective on non-grass plants<br />
that have fewer than two<br />
true leaves."<br />
Whichever method a grower chooses, it’s helpful to keep<br />
a weed survey of the field. These records can assist in<br />
method selection, can track changes in the field, and<br />
can help with diligently sticking to a weed management<br />
program, which is imperative for vineyard success.<br />
Comments about this article? We want to hear from you.<br />
Feel free to email us at article@jcsmarketinginc.com<br />
When a burst of heat is applied at 130°F, the plant’s cell wall<br />
ruptures. This is most effective on non-grass plants that<br />
have fewer than two true leaves. Burning isn’t necessary,<br />
and a weed that loses its shine or retains a fingerprint<br />
when pressed has been adequately flamed. Propane-fueled<br />
flamers are the most commonly used models for weeds in<br />
the vine row, and it’s extremely important to avoid this<br />
method in windy conditions or around dry vegetation.<br />
Herbicides<br />
Contact herbicides are effective, and since the results are<br />
dependent upon the chemicals touching the plant, they<br />
can also damage grape leaves and vines. New flushes<br />
of weeds will require additional application, as contact<br />
herbicides don’t generally have a residual effect. Following<br />
all provided directions—from application method and<br />
timing, to protective equipment and storage—is extremely<br />
important when using any specific herbicides.<br />
Mulch<br />
What is weed control without the mention of mulch?<br />
While mulch can be made from a variety of materials, such<br />
as wood chips, straw and even newspaper, the ultimate<br />
goal is to completely block any light from reaching seeds,<br />
thus preventing germination. Organic mulches break<br />
down faster, so the layer will have to be thicker. Winter<br />
cover crops can be cut and then moved to be used as<br />
mulch. Though cover crops can outcompete weeds, they<br />
can also compete with the vine. Mulches in general may<br />
provide cover for some unwanted visitors as well, such<br />
as rodents that can damage vine trunks and roots.<br />
Bring the<br />
heat on<br />
hard-to-kill<br />
weeds and<br />
insects with<br />
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30 Progressive Crop Consultant <strong>Nov</strong>ember / <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2019</strong>
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