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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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