COVER CROPS in South African Vineyards

CHAPTER 10 PRACTICAL GUIDELINES

Cover-crop management before grapevines are planted New sites offer an excellent opportunity to control problem weeds such as nutsedges, field bindweed, and common couch by applying a post-emergence herbicide. Mark out the grapevine rows. Sow rye or black oats on sandy soils, and

any of the four grasses on sandy loam to sandy clay loam soils, in the work rows at a rate of 150 kilograms of seed per hectare (Figure 10.1), to prevent severe soil erosion (Figure 10.2). Apply a suitable dosage of a post-emergence herbicide to control any weeds that are still present.

FIGURE 10.2. Severe soil erosion can occur after soil preparation if a cover crop is not established to restrict water runoff during rain. (Photo: ARC Infruitec-Niet - voorbij).

FIGURE 10.1. An excellent stand of rye sown full-surface at 150 kilogram seed per hectare directly following soil preparation. The cover crop will suppress weeds and eliminate the need for pre-emergence her - bicides. (Photo: ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij).

178