Course overview
This course looks at the practices associated with the development and operation of a viticultural enterprise. Topics include: organic viticulture, advanced propagation techniques, control of bird management, spray equipment calibration and spray application; pruning, training, trellis erection and repair, propagation, canopy management, physiological pruning, pests and diseases. This course includes visits to commercial vineyards and equipment suppliers.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain the theory behind pruning and propagation methods and describe how it applies in practice to grape production.
- Discuss aspects related to the establishment and re-development of vineyards.
- Explain the differences between vineyard management systems and how these differences relate to vineyard sustainability.
- Describe the methods used for pest and disease control in viticulture and understand their impact on grape production and quality.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how viticultural management can be used to manipulate fruit quality.
- Apply key principles and knowledge related to vineyard management to problem solving.
- Compose written scientific reports and keep detail lab books on the practical work and field trips undertaken.