🍷 VINEYARD WORK 🍇

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Vineyard Soil Preparation: Techniques and Equipment

Why work the soil in the vineyard?

Working the soil in the vineyard involves stirring up the soil and pulling out weeds using various types of equipment. This operation reduces weed competition for water and minerals, thus promoting better vine growth. In addition to weeding, soil tillage allows fertilizers to be buried and the soil surface to be decompacted. Mostly practiced during the vine's vegetative period, from spring to summer, some winegrowers keep the soil worked all year round.

However, with the rise of agro-ecology, more and more winegrowers are seeking to limit or even eliminate this activity in order to preserve soil biodiversity and reduce environmental impact.

How much does tillage cost?

The cost of tillage can vary considerably. According to the 2018 economic referential of the Gironde Chamber of Agriculture, the cost of complete mechanical weeding in wide vines is estimated at 762 euros/ha/year, and 1660 euros/ha/year for a high-density vineyard. An Inrae study also highlights the differences between production regions. The average extra cost of full tillage compared with a conventional itinerary is 210 euros/ha/year for wide vines and 408 euros/ha/year for narrow vines.

These costs do not include the reorganization of work that this practice may entail on the farm.

When is the right time to work the soil in the vineyard?

The right time to work the soil in the vineyard depends on a number of factors. It is advisable not to let the land "close up", i.e. to prevent the grass from taking over completely. The first pass of a tillage tool is often made at the end of winter (February-March), followed by further passes depending on weed growth. Depending on the region and climatic conditions, between three and six passes a year may be necessary.

It is also possible to intervene in autumn, post-harvest (October-November), to butter the cavaillon. This operation should be carried out when the soil is dry: neither too dry nor too wet, to avoid compaction and the formation of large clods.

Points to watch

Tilling the soil may seem straightforward, but it requires special attention if it is to be carried out properly:

• Managing soil movement: it's crucial to maintain a loose layer on which to work. It is advisable to alternate movements between the outside and inside of the cavaillon to maximize the effect of weeding.
• Alternate tools: Different weed species react differently depending on the tool used. By alternating tools, you can effectively manage soil movement and prevent flora selection.
• Avoiding the spread of court-noué: For plots affected by court-noué, it is important to reason out the passages to avoid transporting contaminated soil to unaffected plots.

What equipment should be used for tillage?

Soil-tilling tools can be mounted on different types of tractor or even behind a horse, and can be attached in various places: between the wheels, at the front, at the rear or laterally. Here are the main tool categories:

Row spacing :

• Vineyard frame: Classic, it can accommodate heavy tines for deep penetration or lighter tines for surface work.
• Disc sprayers: Two rows of discs oriented in opposite directions lacerate the soil and plant cover. Ideal for fast work, even with a lot of grass.
• Rotary tools: Rotary hoes with horizontal (rotavator) or vertical axes. Powered by the PTO, they require a lower working speed and deliver clean, flat results.

Conclusion

Working the soil in the vineyard is an essential operation for maintaining healthy vines and optimizing their growth. At Camagris, we offer a complete range of tillage equipment to suit your needs, ensuring optimum efficiency and long service life. Whether you're looking for cultivator shares, inter-row tools or rotary equipment, we have what you need to ensure well-maintained soil and productive vines. To find out more about our products, visit our website https://www.cam-agri-parts.fr/en/.