Tune in as we have an enlightening discussion with Dr. Mark Greenspan, founder of Advanced Viticulture, about the latest innovations in irrigation scheduling and how it influences wine quality. We take a closer look into the intricacies of irrigation scheduling and its influence on wine quality. For over 30 years, Mark has been working with growers as an advisor and consultant, and he shares his unique expertise on viticulture in this episode.
Listen in as we explore how strategic use of deficit irrigation can induce stress in the vine and ultimately affect the chemical makeup of the grapes. We discuss the differences between red and white grape vines, strategies for managing the canopy size and yield of each, and when to apply water stress to achieve the desired outcome. We also delve into the use of soil moisture sensors and the pressure bomb to determine when and how long to irrigate, along with other established methods of scheduling irrigation.
Mark provides insights into some of the newer techniques to reduce the VPD, and we touch on the topic of micro tensiometers. If you’re looking to improve your vineyard’s yield and quality, this episode is a must-listen!
In this episode, you will hear:
- The importance of strategic irrigation and advanced technology in optimizing vineyard yield and wine quality.
- A detailed examination of how irrigation input reduction can affect vine stress and the chemical composition of grapes.
- A deep dive into soil moisture sensors and pressure bomb usage in determining irrigation timing and duration.
- An exploration of vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and its influence on fruit yield and quality, along with strategies to reduce it.
- The emergence of micro tensiometers as a new technology for measuring water potential in vineyards.
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Resources:
Learn more about using plant and soil data for optimal irrigation decisions with Fritz’s member-only video course – Use of Soil & Plant Data for Irrigation Decisions – available for podcast listeners to access until September 1st.
If you have questions about today’s episode or other grape growing questions, use the Ask Fritz button at VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com. Or see the photos of Fritz and Mark in the rocky vineyard in La Mancha, Spain, that they talk about at the beginning of the episode.
If you are in the northern or central coast areas of California and want to learn more about how Mark and his team can help your vineyard, visit AdvancedVit.com. And, if you want to learn more about the company I use with my clients for soil moisture monitoring, reach out to Steven at SensorInsight.
If you are looking for more grape growing resources and content check out VirtualViticultureAcademy.com for free how-to-guides and videos. Or, come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com and get access to member-only content and twice monthly live vineyard help and advice from Fritz. Use the code Underground at checkout to save $75 off your first year of membership.
Today’s Guest:
Dr. Mark Greenspan is the founder and president of Advanced Viticulture, Inc, a wine-growing consulting and vineyard management company primarily focused in the north and central coast of California. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering, an M.S. in Viticulture and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering and has almost 30 years of viticultural experience.
Connect with Mark:
- Email: mark@advancedvit.com
- Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patty-skinkis-98a0592b
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advanced_viticulture/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Advancedvit
