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DEAR NEW FARM:
In the latest newletter, it is mentioned that Italy has organic
vineyards; it almost seems natural. Why is it so hard to grow
grapes organically in New Jersey? Are the variety of grapes
grown in Italy more hardy? If that is the answer, then where
can we get these varieties?
Kathy Fiegauf
New Jersey
DEAR KATHY:
New Farm senior writer Laura Sayre, who visited organic vineyards
in Italy and who wrote the article in question, had this to
say:
I think most of the advantages enjoyed by Italian organic
vineyard managers have to do with a favorable climate, although
I'm sure the huge diversity of vine varieties (including
some that are literally ancient) available over there lends
some benefit. In general though, as in parts of California
and France, organic grape growing is relatively easy in
dry climates with few pest and disease problems. This is
not the case in New Jersey! You might be interested to read
a couple of articles I wrote last year about East Coast
U.S. growers trying to reduce chemical use:
From table to farm
Manhattan restaurateurs and local food supporters turn to
sustainable
wine-grape growing on Long Island's North Fork
www.newfarm.org/features/0804/shinn/index.shtml
Pennsylvania wine-grape grower pioneers sustainable
vineyard management methods
The Roth family has been part of southern Pennsylvania's
fruit world for four generations. Reigning patriarch Phil
Roth—now in his seventh decade—is challenging
himself and his fellow growers to cut back on chemicals
www.newfarm.org/features/0704/roth/index.shtml
Compost tea research enters its second year
Study aims to shed light on current debates over the safety
and efficacy of compost tea as an organic material
www.newfarm.org/depts/NFfield_trials/0404/tea.shtml
A good place to start for more information on varieties
is Lon Rombough's The
Grape Grower: A Guide to Organic Viticulture (Chelsea
Green, 2002). You might also check out Growing Organic
Winegrapes: An Introductory Handbook for Growers (Fetzer
Vineyards, 2003) www.fetzer.com
, although, again, it's speaking to a CA audience.
Hope that's some help!
Regards,
Laura
NF
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