In this Q&A episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz answers real-world questions from growers across the U.S., covering late-season disease management, water and nutrient strategy, and vine removal decisions. Fritz talks through post-harvest care for young, non-bearing vines, how to handle irrigation and foliar disease pressure in different regions, and clears up confusion around growing degree days.
He also explains how to work with phosphorous acid fungicides and spray tank pH, why and how to remove struggling vines when repurposing a block, and ways to improve fruit acidity and yeast-assimilable nitrogen for better fermentations. The episode closes with guidance on supporting weaker replants surrounded by mature vines. Listeners will gain clear, field-tested guidance they can apply right away to protect vine health, improve fruit quality, and make smarter long-term decisions in their vineyards.
In this episode, you will hear:
- How to manage irrigation and disease control for non-bearing young vines heading into fall
- Why negative growing degree days are set to zero and how to choose a realistic start date
- Best timing and methods for removing underperforming vines
- How phosphorous acid fungicides fit into a spray program and why spray water pH matters
- Ways to boost fruit YAN and acidity, while supporting pale, third-leaf replants facing competition with mature vines
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Episode Sponsor:
Today’s episode was brought to you by Vintner’s Vault and Vigneron Toy Store.
Thank you to Vintner’s Vault for sponsoring today’s episode! Vintner’s Vault is the #1 winery equipment company that I recommend to my growers, who are also winemakers. Visit TheVintnerVault.com and use the code UNDERGROUND5 (all caps) to save 5% off of your online order or mention that you heard about them on the Vineyard Underground podcast when contacting them for a larger piece of equipment, consulting services, or turn-key packages, and they will provide a podcast listener discount for you.
Thank you to Vigneron Toy Store for sponsoring today’s episode. Vigneron Toy Store specializes in Harvesters, Sprayers, Frost Mitigation Equipment, Canopy Management Trimmers, and more. As grape growers themselves, they can expertly help you determine the best equipment for your specific vineyard needs. And, as a special offer for our podcast listeners, you can save 5% off in-stock machines by entering the promo code Underground on the contact form at vignerontoystore.com.
