University of Georgia Extension — We are within a few weeks of the anticipated initial emergence of grape root borer (GRB) adults here in Georgia. If you are planning on implementing mating disruption as a management tactic for GRB and you haven’t deployed your pheromone dispensers/ties, now is the time to get those distributed. If you are unfamiliar with grape …

As vineyards progress through the bloom period of development this spring, focus on insect pest control increases. Grape berry moth (GBM) is a key insect that must be managed in Michigan vineyards. Most management programs target later generations, but under the right circumstances management of the first generation now might be a worthwhile endeavor. Infestation by this pest is highly …

Contents of the June Issue: Protecting Against Smoke Taint Rejections Multi-Faceted Problem Brings No Silver Bullet Solution All About Raisin Interest in 2022 Raisin Insurance Coverage Options & Deadlines Mechanization & Precision Viticulture Opportunities for Michigan Wine & Juice Grape Vineyards The American Grapevine Grape Industry News Briefs California Maryland Michigan Minnesota Missouri New York Oregon Virginia Washington

Over the course of more than 18 months, a group of viticulturists and vineyard owners have been working together to research both the benefits of, and the process for establishing a Winegrape Pest and Disease Control District in Sonoma County. They have engaged in research and discussed an effort with elected and appointed Sonoma County Officials, University of California Cooperative …

Grape berry moth (GBM) is a native North American pest that can reduce fruit quality both directly and indirectly. The immature or larval stage of the pest tunnels into fruit reducing fruit quality. The entry holes (“stings”) of the larve compromise the integrity of the berries and provide an entry point for assorted fruit rots including sour rot (Figure 1). …

The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) today awarded $3.75 million to fund 10 research projects that explore Integrated Pest Management (IPM) tools for urban, non-agricultural and agricultural pest management. The 2021-2022 DPR Grants Programs funded by the state budget represent a 617% increase from the previous year’s funding to accelerate the transition to safer, more sustainable pest management. “The …

The quality of plants you choose to grow in your vineyard is important for successful development and/or grafting-over established vineyard blocks. Often concern is placed primarily on getting a certain cultivar (variety), clone, or rootstock quickly, rather than taking the steps necessary to ensure that the plant material is from a sound source. This can lead to vineyards having poor …

Recent studies have demonstrated that the viruses that cause Grape Leafroll Disease (GLD) are widely prevalent in mid–Missouri vineyards. While it is not clear if GLD will significantly impact the American and hybrid grape varieties grown in Missouri like it has European varieties, steps should still be taken to limit the spread of these viruses between infected and uninfected grapevines. …

After an impressive career spanning nearly 35 years, Dr. Wayne Wilcox will be awarded of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture’s (ASEV) highest honor, the ASEV Merit Award. Dr. Wilcox dedicated his career to researching and understanding the various factors of fruit diseases and finding ways to manage those disease through practical control programs. He will be presenting the Merit Award presentation, “Molds, …

During the aging of wine in tank or barrel, it is not uncommon that a film may start to appear on the surface of the wine. What is causing this film and what are the consequences for your wine? The most likely cause of the film is growth of oxidative film yeast such as species of Candida, Pichia, and Hansenula …