Grapes
Protect grape clusters from disease during early fruit development
Young fruit clusters are highly susceptible to all major diseases, including downy mildew, powdery mildew, black rot, Phomopsis and anthracnose. If prolonged cool wet weather prevails during bloom, Botrytis can also gain a foothold in clusters of susceptible cultivars by promoting... more »
Fungicides applied at bloom may reduce fruit set in grapes
Figure 1. Grape cluster weight at harvest in response to a single fungicide application at full bloom in Concord grapes in Michigan in 2013. Control of fungal diseases in fruit crops relies on the regular... more »
Scheid named 2017 Leader of the Year by CAWG
California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) has named Al Scheid of Scheid Vineyards as its 2017 Leader of the Year. The Leader of the Year award recognizes a grower whose record of exceptional leadership has... more »
Market research reveals why consumers are drawn to wineries in Michigan
In 1980, Michigan was home to 10 wineries and just over 200 acres of vineyard land. Today, those numbers have skyrocketed to more than 200 wineries and nearly 3,000 acres dedicated to wine grape production,... more »
Survey shows increase in Washington wine industry research awareness
As the Washington state wine research program grows, so does the state’s industry awareness about the importance of such a program. According to a recent survey, about three-quarters of Washington State’s wine industry is aware... more »
Climate, vector behavior on disease spread sketchy
A top challenge of mitigating the impact of climate change on agricultural production is knowing the exact ways in which higher temperatures and altered precipitation regimes affect the many aspects of agroecosystems. This is especially... more »
Monthly grape grower social to offer peer education
Michigan Grape Society, in partnership with Michigan State University Extension (MSU), will be hosting a series of Monthly Grape Grower Social events at wineries and vineyards throughout the Lake Michigan Shore AVA (American Viticultural Area). Participants can... more »
MSU Extension hires wine, grape educator
Thomas Todaro, a graduate of The Ohio State University (OSU), recently accepted an Extension educator position to serve the wine and grape industry in northwest Michigan. Todaro will begin in his new role in August. “I... more »