Technical Yearbook 2023

Francois Viljoen Francois Viljoen

PHOTO 6. Australian saltbush.

are not necessarily a sufficient mulch, but serve as a catch net for all leaves that fall during autumn/winter, as well as cuttings after a slashing action. Grape skins, stems, compost and manure can also be used together with the shoots, but come at a significant transport cost like the traditional and effective, but expensive straw cover. Reference https://www.wineland.co.za/let-nature-work-for-you employ-winter-weeds-as-cover-crops/ Conclusion In light of the regenerative viticulture movement which has recently become a buzz phrase among opinion leaders, the use of these natural cover crops is an innovative step in the right direction. Through the judicious application of practices that encourage the desired plant growth in the vineyard, producers can employ winter weeds to reduce chemical inputs. This can also translate to the direct benefit of a self-seeding cover crop which is adapted to the prevailing conditions. Apart from the abovementioned examples, investigations have also been launched into other species like ripgut brome ( Bromus diandrus ), wild oats ( Avena fatua ) and annual oat-seed grass ( Ehrharta longiflora ), paving the way for producers to potentially benefit even more from the ecological function of weeds. 

PHOTO 7. The taproot system of this Australian saltbush cover crop presents little competition for grapevines, as it grows in the work row.

For more information, contact Hennie Visser at henniev@vinpro.co.za.

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TECHNICAL YEARBOOK 2023