As vineyard owners and growers, we have become attuned to the temperamental moods of Mother Nature. In the quieter, cooler growing season of 2023, our vineyard shade cloth might lie forgotten or stored away. But even as we bask in the mildness of the season, we must remember that weather changes can be both drastic and unpredictable. A sudden heat spike could well be around the corner. Are you prepared?
The key to managing these unexpected climate flares lies in being proactive. Here's how to ensure your vineyard remains protected when temperatures climb.
Have a Vineyard Shade Cloth Plan for Heat Spikes
As with any emergency, preparation is critical. A well-orchestrated plan can be the difference between a lush, flourishing vineyard and one that suffers under the scorching sun.
Ensure that your vineyard shade cloth is deployed on the ground, ready for action at a moment's notice. Consider having a team on standby, trained and prepared to install the shade cloth quickly and efficiently. Your vineyard's survival during a heat spike may depend on their swift action.
Test the Cloth Long Before You Need It
Just like a fire drill prepares us for a potential blaze, testing your shade cloth before the heat hits is essential. You want to ensure that it provides full coverage over your precious fruit, shielding it from the harsh rays of the sun. Also, make sure it is robust and doesn't tear easily when hooked onto the posts.
To illustrate, here's a photo of a shade cloth (not ours!) failing to cover all the fruit.
You don't want to be caught in such a situation when the heat is already upon you.
Know When to Cover the Grapes
When it comes to protecting your grapes, timing is everything. For vineyards situated in hotter regions, it's typically best to cover just after veraison - the onset of ripening when the grapes change color. However, if your vineyard is nestled in a cooler spot, waiting for 7-10 days post-veraison can ensure the complete development of all the rich, complex phenolics your grapes have to offer.
Keep a Full Canopy
Optimal protection from the heat doesn't just depend on the shade cloth. A full canopy can work in conjunction with your shade cloth for best results.
We put our shade cloth on the hotter side of the vines and leave a full canopy. On the cooler side, where there is no shade cloth, we leave a full canopy and remove leaves from the inside (tunneling) for dapple light. This combination provides a buffer against the harsh sunlight, while also ensuring your grapes receive the gentle light they need to fully develop color, flavor and tannins.
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of climate conditions, preparedness is our most potent weapon. With a sturdy shade cloth, a solid plan, and a team ready to spring into action, your vineyard will not only survive the heat spikes, it will continue to thrive.
Want to learn more about shade cloth? Follow the link below.
To get shade cloth pricing, contact us.
