by Fritz Westover
What if you could hang out with experienced grape growers, ask them about the science of grape growing, vineyard operations, and more; then take an insight or two to improve your vineyard and ultimately the quality of the wines you produce? That’s what we do each week on the Vineyard Underground. Hosted by Fritz Westover –– viticulture expert more than 20 years of experience in the vineyard industry –– every episode is an in-depth look at grape growing methods, care, and even complicated matters of fertilization and pest and disease management? The goal is to provide you with an understanding of the complicated aspects of viticulture science so that experienced and even first-time grape growers will be able to understand and implement new practices in their vineyard.
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Publishing Since
10/6/2022
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April 29, 2025
<p dir="ltr">There are three alternative canopy management practices that generate a lot of questions and sometimes confusion from growers. So, in today’s solo episode I will cover these three canopy management practices - extreme leaf removal, shoot tipping, and palissage. I’ll go over each of these practices and discuss when they should be used to benefit your vineyard and in what instances these practices should be avoided.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>In this episode, you will hear:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The potential outcomes of extreme leaf removal</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The impact of extreme leaf removal on grapevine physiology and disease prevention</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Creative applications of shoot tipping or hedging</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The palissage method as an alternative to traditional shoot hedging</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">New approaches surrounding the palissage method</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Follow and Review:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click the ‘+ Follow’ button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vineyard-underground/id1648761941"> Apple Podcasts</a>. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Access more canopy management resources at <a href= "http://virtualviticultureacademy.com/Canopy">VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/Canopy</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Come grow with Fritz through <a href= "https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/">VirtualViticultureAcademy.com</a>! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code <strong>Underground</strong> at checkout. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Sponsor:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today’s episode was brought to you by <strong>Shellt Grow Tubes</strong> and by <strong>SensorInsight.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Thank you to Shellt Grow Tubes for sponsoring today’s episode. Shellt makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit <a href= "https://www.shellt.us/">https://www.shellt.us/</a> and order with the code <strong>UNDERGROUND</strong> to <strong>save 15% off</strong> all online orders plus free shipping within the continental United States.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thank you to SensorInsight for sponsoring today’s episode. SensorInsight is a leader in vineyard soil moisture and weather monitoring. SensorInsight designs state-of-the-art, remote satellite monitoring of soil moisture and weather, bringing actionable information for your vineyard operations straight to your phone, with real-time data so you can best decide when to turn on your irrigation, how long to run the system, and learn how the dynamics of soil moisture can change over a given season. Visit them today at <a href= "https://sensorinsight.io">https://sensorinsight.io</a>. And don’t forget to mention the code <strong>Underground</strong> to receive a discount on your SensorInsight solution.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Credits</strong></p> <p>If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at <a href= "https://emeraldcitypro.com/">https://emeraldcitypro.com</a>. Let them know we sent you.</p>
April 15, 2025
<p dir="ltr">Growers need to know which insects they need to treat and which they can ignore. While some insects pose a threat to grapevines, others can actually benefit them. In this episode, we have a discussion with the Distinguished Professor and Berry Crops Entomology Extension Specialist for Michigan State University, Dr. Rufus Isaacs, on this topic. Understanding when and what insects are actually a problem versus those that are hanging out or even providing a benefit is necessary for the health of your vineyard.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>In this episode, you will hear:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The insects that are most destructive during bud burst in the spring</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The insects that are destructive during bloom</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Methods and products for prevention and treatment of various pests</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">How to identify thrips</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The importance of weekly scouting and knowing what to look for</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Follow and Review:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click the ‘+ Follow’ button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vineyard-underground/id1648761941"> Apple Podcasts</a>. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Attend Fritz’s upcoming <strong>Winning with Shoot Thinning</strong> FREE LIVE Virtual Learning event on April 28th at 5:00 PM Central and ask your question live. Register for <strong>FREE</strong>: <a href= "http://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning">www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Come grow with Fritz through <a href= "https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/">VirtualViticultureAcademy.com</a>! Save <strong>$75 off</strong> your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. </p> <p dir="ltr">Download the <strong>Michigan State Mobile Guide for Grape IPM</strong>: <a href= "https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/a-mobile-guide-for-grape-ipm-scouting-in-north-central-and-eastern-u-s"> https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/a-mobile-guide-for-grape-ipm-scouting-in-north-central-and-eastern-u-s</a></p> <p dir="ltr">Listen to the related episode: Episode 21 - <strong>The Rise of the Spotted Lanternfly with Dr. Michela Centinari</strong> - <a href= "https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu021/">https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu021/</a> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Today’s Guest:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Dr. Rufus Isaacs is a Distinguished Professor and Berry Crops Entomology Extension Specialist for Michigan State University.</p> <p dir="ltr">Connect with Rufus: <a href= "https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/rufus_isaacs">https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/rufus_isaacs</a> </p> <p dir="ltr">View his research work: <a href= "https://www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu/">https://www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu/</a> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Sponsor:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today’s episode was brought to you by <strong>SensorInsight</strong> and by <strong>Vigneron Toy Store</strong>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thank you to <strong>SensorInsight</strong> for sponsoring today’s episode. SensorInsight is a leader in vineyard soil moisture and weather monitoring. SensorInsight designs state-of-the-art, remote satellite monitoring of soil moisture and weather, bringing actionable information for your vineyard operations straight to your phone, with real-time data so you can best decide when to turn on your irrigation, how long to run the system, and learn how the dynamics of soil moisture can change over a given season. Visit them today at <a href= "https://sensorinsight.io/">https://sensorinsight.io</a>. And don’t forget to mention the code <strong>Underground</strong> to receive a discount on your SensorInsight solution.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thank you to <strong>Vigneron Toy Store</strong> for sponsoring today’s episode. Vigneron Toy Store specializes in Harvesters, Sprayers, Frost Mitigation Equipment, Canopy Management Trimmers, and more. As grape growers themselves, they can expertly help you determine the best equipment for your specific vineyard needs. And, as a special offer for our podcast listeners, you can save 5% off in-stock machines by entering the promo code <strong>Underground</strong> on the contact form at <a href= "https://www.vignerontoystore.com/">vignerontoystore.com</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Credits</strong></p> <p>If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at <a href= "https://emeraldcitypro.com/">https://emeraldcitypro.com</a>. Let them know we sent you.</p>
April 1, 2025
<p dir="ltr">In this episode, we are joined by Alice Wise from Cornell University to talk about vineyard floor management and how concepts and best practices for vineyard floor management have evolved in recent years. Alice has been following trends and successes for grape growers in Long Island, New York, and across the Mid-Atlantic in general with her extension and research roles, and we know you are going to love what she has to share with us. </p> <p dir="ltr">Listen in to discover the evolution of vineyard floor management today!</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>In this episode, you will hear:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Why growers decided they wanted a change in their management practices.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">About Alice’s sustainability program on the East Coast.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The types of mechanical cultivation that were tried and their problems.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">What a lysimeter is and how it’s used.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">How to do your own cover crop research. </p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Follow and Review:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click the ‘+ Follow’ button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vineyard-underground/id1648761941"> Apple Podcasts</a>. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Attend Fritz’s upcoming <strong>Winning with Shoot Thinning</strong> FREE LIVE Virtual Learning event on April 28th at 5:00 PM Central and ask your question live. Register for <strong>FREE</strong> <a href= "http://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning">www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to <a href= "http://vineyardundergroundpodcast.com">VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com</a> and click the <strong>Ask Fritz</strong> button. </p> <p dir="ltr">Come grow with Fritz through <a href= "http://virtualviticultureacademy.com">VirtualViticultureAcademy.com</a>! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code <strong>Underground</strong> at checkout.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Today’s Guest:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Alice Wise</strong> is a Viticulture Researcher with the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County</p> <p dir="ltr">Connect with Alice at <a href= "https://ccesuffolk.org/staff/alice-wise">https://ccesuffolk.org/staff/alice-wise</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Sponsor:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today’s episode was brought to you by <strong>Clemens Technologies</strong> and by <strong>Shellt Grow Tubes</strong>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit <a href= "https://www.clemens-online.com/us/">https://www.clemens-online.com/us/</a> and provide the code <strong>UNDERGROUND</strong> to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at <a href= "mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> with any questions.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shellt</strong> makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit <a href= "https://www.shellt.us/">https://www.shellt.us/</a> and order with the code <strong>UNDERGROUND</strong> to save 15% off all online orders plus free shipping within the continental United States.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Credits</strong></p> <p>If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at <a href= "https://emeraldcitypro.com/">https://emeraldcitypro.com</a>. Let them know we sent you.</p>
Vineyard Team
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Levi Dalton
Elizabeth Schneider
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