Grapes

MSU researches drones to control vineyard pests

At the annual Viticulture Field Day in late July at Michigan State University’s (MSU) Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center in Benton Harbor, winegrape growers assessed autonomous tools for tasks including pest management. “One of... more »

California grapes, stone fruit suffer from storm aftermath

Weeks after it brought Southern California its first-ever tropical storm watch before making landfall over the northern Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, Hurricane Hilary’s effects on California crops is still being assessed. One thing that’s... more »

USDA expands crop insurance to cover grapevine loss

The USDA is expanding crop insurance options with a new grapevine insurance program to cover loss of grafted vines caused by natural perils such as freeze or fire. The new program also will complement the... more »

Grape industry grants available to help Colorado winemakers increase processing capacity

Colorado winegrowers can apply for the Wine & Grape Industry Processing Grant to increase their processing capacity both at the winery and in the vineyard. Up to $250,000 will be available to producers through competitive... more »

UGA Extension welcomes new viticulture specialist

Georgia’s steadily growing wine industry has a new advocate with the hire of a new University of Georgia Cooperative Extension viticulture specialist to support the state’s more than 85 vineyards. Sarah Lowder joined UGA’s Department... more »

Drone assignment: A costly investment, consider pros and cons

A recent addition in growers’ toolboxes, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) flying over orchards and vineyards can supply images to help orchardists and horticulturists more precisely and efficiently identify areas of concern. Drones can increase efficiencies... more »

GreenVenus’ gene-edited grapes offer premium quality, sustainable winemaking

GreenVenus LLC, an agricultural biotech company, has released advances aimed at revolutionizing the production of high-quality wines without using sulfites. Oxidation, or browning, during grape juice processing can affect the color, phenolic content, and overall... more »

Kelp-based fertilizer Afrikelp aids in managing heat stress

The record-breaking heat this summer has focused attention on measures to stay cool and safe, especially for those who work outside in agriculture and other industries. Heat can also adversely affect the crops those workers... more »