In a season where ‘average is beautiful’, the topics covered include vine stress management, post-harvest vine care, optimising irrigation, disease prevention and tackling bird pressure.
Overcoming the effects of last summer
Last summer’s extreme heat left many vines stressed, particularly in coastal regions where shallow soils and limited water resources exacerbated the issue. Inadequate dormancy due to water scarcity led to delayed and uneven bud burst this season.
Managing bird pressure on vineyards
Birds, particularly silvereyes, are a recurring challenge for Western Australian growers. These birds often target ripening grapes when natural food sources become scarce.
Install bird nets before veraison to prevent birds from identifying your vineyard as a food source.
Cowaramup Agencies has this bird netting available at time of email:
13m x 150m Black (7 rolls)
13m x 150m 45gsm White (7)
15m x 150m 45 gsm Black (5)
15m x 150m 45 gsm White (2)
13m x 100m 45 gsm Black (9)
13m x 100m 45 gsm White SOLD OUT
13m x 180m 45 gsm Black SOLD OUT
19m x 180m 45 gsm Black SOLD OUT
19m x 200m 45gsm Black SOLD OUT
“Timing is crucial. Once birds find your crop, they’re hard to dissuade.”
Leveraging seasonal rainfall
The benefit of the August/September rainfall was that it set up the vines for a good season.
A good spray program is the key to success in the vineyard
Those managers who timed preventative spray programs at critical growth stages are reaping the rewards. Monitoring forecasts and anticipating weather conditions is key.
With potential for a weather event at the end of the week, these are the late season Powdery Mildew and Botrytis products we have available:
Serenade Opti / Botrytis
Problad / Botrytis
Ecocarb / Powdery
Intervene available for late ripening varieties / Powdery & Botrytis
Please call us for ordering.
“Proactive disease management ensures the health of the vines and the quality of the fruit.”
Irrigation strategies during veraison
Irrigate to keep a good healthy functioning canopy.
Use soil moisture probes to avoid over- or under-watering.
Pump & Irrigation solutions available at Cowaramup Agencies
Nutrient management for healthier vines
Balanced nutrition is essential for maintaining healthy vines and achieving optimal yields. Colin advises against heavy nitrogen applications late in the season, as they can promote excessive growth and increase disease risks.
Post-Harvest Care: Use seaweed-based products and other biological treatments to help vines recover and store carbohydrates for the next season.
Post harvest – Avoid Excess Nitrogen: Limit nitrogen applications to reduce the risk of disease.
Cowaramup Agencies endorses these Vicentia products for post harvest use: Supa 3ZBM, Kelpak & Budmate.
Other post harvest nutrition: Potassium Nitrate, NPK.
A promising vintage ahead
With favourable weather and proactive vineyard management, Margaret River is set for an excellent vintage this year. Vibrant canopies, balanced nutrient profiles, and effective pest control contribute to the overall success of the season.
“Growers have a fantastic opportunity to produce high-quality fruit this season. Preparation and vigilance are key.”
Cowaramup Agencies provides all your viticulture inputs. Please call us to discuss.
Cowaramup Agencies
Viticulture / Rural / Irrigation
T: 9755 5279
E: cowag@cowag.com.au E: mike@cowag.com.au
Explore our full range of services and products at cowag.com.au or visit our store in Cowaramup, Western Australia.
Thanks to:
Colin Bell, AHA Viticulture
Vineyard Management and Consultation
T: 9756 8011 E: manager@ahaviticulture.com.au
