News from Cornell's Viticulture and Enology Program, May 2018
RESEARCH FOCUS
Expanding the Use of Under-Vine Cover Crops in New York Vineyards
Research has shown that under-vine cover crops can help manage vigor and reduce erosion. Grape extension specialists Alice Wise and Hans Walter-Peterson discuss management in Long Island and Finger Lakes vineyards, and how to adapt equipment for seeding cover crops under the trellis.
STAFF FOCUS
Five Questions for Demi Perry
With a background in chemistry, sensory science, and enology, Demi works in Ithaca as both a technician and PhD student in Anna Katharine Mansfield's program on Cornell’s main campus.
STUDENT FOCUS
V&E Senior Capstones Making a Difference for New York
The three projects focused on non-traditional fermentation products and methods involving maple syrup, vinegar, and de-aromatized Concord and Niagara.
GRAPES 101
Potassium - From the Soil to the Wine
Potassium is the most abundant cation in plant tissues, grapes, juices, and wines. Several factors affect its availability in the soil, uptake by vines, and concentration in the fruit, juice, and wine.
RESEARCH IN PLAIN ENGLISH
UPCOMING EVENTS
- June 12 (then recurring every 2nd Tuesday of the month), The Hitchhiker's Guide to Precision Agriculture Webinar Series: Precision Viticulture at a Glance
- July 9-11, ASEV Eastern Section Conference, King of Prussia PA
NEWS BRIEFS
- New Yorkers are Urged to Watch out for the Spotted Lanternfly
The invasive insect from Asia is established in southeastern PA, where it is a major threat to grapes, apples, hops, and the enjoyment of outdoor activities. It is an expert hitchiker, so vehicles traveling in and out of the infection zone should look for egg masses and live adult stowaways.
- Governor Cuomo Announces First-Ever Concord Grape Summit to Promote Continued Growth of New York's Agricultural Industry
Initiatives to revitalize the Concord grape industry include research, new product development, and improvement of vineyards in western NY.
- Senator Chuck Schumer Voices Support, Requests Funding for the Grape Genetics Research Unit in Geneva, NY
To assist the lab, Schumer is looking to get funds from the Department of Agriculture to help pay for tools like mobile and static data sensors and robotic tools for field-mounted vineyard equipment - which would allow scientists to collect real-time data on factors impacting crops like insects, water, and disease.
- Cornell Wine Connoisseurs Place Third in Switzerland Wine Tasting Competition
The student wine club, Cuvee, is comprised of undergraduates and graduates from the Hotel School and the Viticulture and Enology program.
- Researchers Look for Genetic Clues to Help Grapes Survive the Cold
Al Kovaleski, a PhD student in the field of horticulture, is working on understanding how grape buds respond to subzero temperatures and the genetic underpinnings of supercooling in grape buds. Watch his seminar, "Grapevine Winter Survival Guide".
- The Frozen Genetics of International Wine Cultivars and Grape Breeders No Longer Flying Blind
Two recent features in Wines & Vines magazine highlight the VitisGen2 project.
FEATURED VIDEO
Hans Walter-Peterson discusses the utility of cover crops and how to adapt vineyard equipment to sow seed under the vines.