VASCM: In-Row Mulching - Pros and Cons

[Mary Lindsay, Muns Vineyard]

A question was posed to this group recently about mulching, and there 
was some discussion about it at the last meeting a couple of weeks ago.  
Rich Casale of the NRCS has provided the attached document that speaks 
to the pros and cons of mulching.

 From this document:

/I personally think that the advantages of using mulch between vine rows 
outweigh the disadvantages. In addition, some of the disadvantages can 
be overcome with the proper mulch product, application and maintenance. 
Before deciding whether or not mulching is right for your vineyard and 
where to use (vine rows, between vine rows, access roads, bare soil 
areas around vineyard or all of the above) consult with your vineyard 
specialist, UC cooperative extension expert, and/or the USDA Natural 
Resource Conservation Service.  Every vineyard and every site is 
completely different and requires a site specific determination.////
//
//////////Mulch can be used selectively in vineyards to both reduce 
weeds and still be done so without harming your vines. Between-rows 
mulching is a beneficial method without compromising vine production and 
quality. A 2- to 3-inch layer of a finely ground bark, or a 4-6 inch 
layer of loose weed-free straw (not hay) can be placed in the middle of 
grape rows between vines.////////
////
//A 2-inch layer of mulch around the base of the vines can help weeds 
that compete for the same water and nutrients the grapes do. Mulching 
can help to regulate soil temperatures as well. On well-drained soils, 
mulch can help to conserve moisture and reduce erosion. /

*Note: Mulching is incentive practice under the Environmental Quality 
Incentive Program (EQIP) administered by the USDA-NRCS, and is eligible 
for funding. The sign up deadline for the 2014 program is Nov 15, 2013.

*Information about the EQIP program was sent to this list a couple of 
weeks ago. Numerous VASCM members have received funding under the EQIP 
program for projects including rainwater collection systems; hedgerows; 
ponds, etc.

You can find general information on EQIP at www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov . Click 
on 'Farm Bill' under the 'Programs' tab at the top of the page. Then 
under 'Financial Assistance' you will find the details about 
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). Interested applicants 
are encouraged to request conservation planning and technical assistance 
from a local NRCS field office to help with the development of a 
conservation plan. A conservation plan is the basis for an EQIP application.

For more specific information about the program, creating a conservation 
plan and projects you might apply for, contact:
Rich Casale
Certified Professional erosion and Sediment Control Specialist #3
District Conservationist
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
831-475-1967
Richard.casale at ca.usda.gov


Regards,
Mary Lindsay
Muns Vineyard
VASCM








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