Protecting vinifera grapes from cold weather damage

View the project report

Commodities

• Fruits: grapes

Practices

• Farm Business Management: budgets/cost and returns, feasibility study, agricultural finance, risk management
• Pest Management: weather monitoring
• Production Systems: general crop production
• Sustainable Communities: sustainability measures

Regional winemakers have traditionally relied on native American and hybrid grape varieties, but consumers are demanding wines based on vinifera varieties. Vinifera varieties are susceptible to the extreme cold temperatures experienced in the Northeast, and this project will compare two methods of vine insulation to determine if damaging temperatures can be avoided in the area immediately around the vine. Outreach will be through a farm tour, round table discussion groups, presentations, and articles.