Thursday, June 23, 2011

Summer in the vineyard

 It always amazes me that something that looks so lifeless in the winter, can become so full of luscious growth in the summer. During this time I work to manage the weed growth and mow  the 3 acres at least once a week. The last placement of fertilizer will be around July 1, Southern States Garden Super Grow. We've had some rain, but I have to supplement with our irrigation from the well.  There is also pruning in the summer. Yes, pruning. Suckers grow from the base and extra vinegrowth on the main branch has to be clipped back to allow for the nutrients to reach the main area of the vine. This also helps the plant's stress level of having to provide water to so much vine during this hot weather. I have to make sure there is good air flow also through the vines. Watching for insects as Japanese beetles and June bugs is an ever going issue.  So,  this is a busy time, but a pleasurable one. Watching the grapes mature enhances the excitement of the harvest in the fall.

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