Alternative Weed Management Strategies:Effects on Weed Control and Grapevine Yield in an Established Vineyard

Weeds compromise vineyard productivity by competing with grapevines for water and nutrients. To manage weeds, viticulturists commonly used herbicides and/or cultivation within the vineyard row. Although temporarily effective, these techniques may jeopardize soil quality and the ultimate sustainability of a viticultural enterprise. The need for alternative weed management strategies that effectively manage weeds, maintain grapevine performance and quality, and conserve soil resources are of increasing concern. The first objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of four weed management strategies on weed control, grapevine physiological responses, and assayed soil parameters in an established vineyard. Secondly, this study is investigating the influence of irrigation on grapevine growth and development grown with or without a living mulch