Incubator Initiative - Is organic weed control beneficial for winegrape production in the Limestone Coast?

The use of herbicide in the undervine area of a vineyard to control the growth of competitive species is widespread. In recent years, the use of mechanical weed control or mulching, with or without the addition of compost, has become increasingly popular. However, impacts on soil health and vine physiology associated with these new management practices are largely unknown and are dependent on many factors. This trial was designed to take in data from many facets of the vineyard to better understand how mulching and mechanical weed control (light surface tillage) might affect vine performance, and ultimately help determine whether these practices might be feasible for growers in the Padthaway region to adopt.