Sustainable Winegrowing With Vineyard Team

Managing pests like powdery mildew, downy mildew, botrytis, and sour rot can be complex. Andy Fels, Vineyard Manager at Shady Lane Cellars in Michigan, shares insights from his USDA Sustainable Ag Research Education producer grant project. The project compares two pest management approaches: a soft pesticide program and a conventional one. Andy experimented using his on-farm sprayer, providing real-world results. The soft pesticide program proved effective despite climate variability and fluctuating pest pressures. The project underscores the potential of using softer chemistries to manage disease while maintaining fruit quality. Resources:         REGISTER: April 25, 2025 | Fungicide Spraying: Evolving Strategies & Grower Insights 80: (Rebroadcast) The Goldilocks Principle & Powdery Mildew Management 117: Grapevine Mildew Control with UV Light 197: Managing the Sour Rot Disease Complex in Grapes 219: Intelligent Sprayers to Improve Fungicide Applications and Save Money 235: Battling Fungicide Re