South Africa Wine Research Projects

2. VITICULTURE RESEARCH PROJECT IN PROGRESS

MEASURING THE EFFECT OF COVER CROPS ON SOIL AND VINE HEALTH, AND GRAPE QUALITY

EXPCo G32-22 Dr Annika Pienaar, Experico, Stellenbosch Start date: 2023

AIM AND INDUSTRY RELEVANCE: This project aims to build on existing knowledge and investigate the effect of cover crop mixes on soil health and grapevines. With increased interest in more sustainable farming practices, more research is being done on using cover crops in agricultural systems. Local cover crop trials have recently been conducted in vineyards, focusing on cover crop mixes and their success, cover crop biomass and weed suppression. Using the right cover crop mix can increase soil moisture, improve soil structure, suppress weeds and pests, increase plant-available nutrients and improve crop resilience. This, in turn, reduces irrigation, pesticide, and fertiliser costs. In this project, the viability of growing cover crops under the vine and growing permanent cover crops will also be investigated. Analysis of nematode communities will add to the knowledge base of nematode host status of cover crop species. Care will be taken to include cover crops that will have a suppressive effect on inoculum and infestation levels of pathogens and/or pests. This project aims to provide the industry with crucial information to fill the knowledge gaps about selecting cover crops to improve the properties and ecology of soil in vineyards.

SOUTH AFRICA WINE RESEARCH 2024

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