Between the Vines: Recent Episodes
Lake Erie Regional Grape Program
Between the Vines focuses on timely viticulture, business management, and Integrated Pest Management issues to help vineyards achieve commercial success. The podcast covers timely topics and research updates throughout the year. It is brought to you by the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program. This regional Extension team is a collaboration between Penn State and Cornell University.
Jennifer, Andrew and Megan come together to talk about the upcoming sprayer technology demo day organized by the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program team. This day will feature presentations from experts in sprayer technology, including drone applications and autonomous spray units, as well as demonstrations of various equipment. Megan shared insights from her work on sprayer calibrations and water quality, emphasizing the importance of regular testing and maintenance for effective pesticide application. The team highlighted the educational value of the event, which will include classroom sessions, field demonstrations, and opportunities for growers to earn pesticide credits as well as lunch! They also mentioned other recent activities, such as grower meetings and upcoming travel plans, and encouraged listeners to register for the demo day.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
This podcast episode featured Dr. Terry Bates presenting on high-resolution vineyard nutrition research that was originally planned for the American Society of Enology and Viticulture National Conference in Boise. Dr. Bates discussed the importance of understanding nutrient supply, uptake, and demand in vineyards, emphasizing the use of spatial data collection through sensors and tissue sampling to create variable rate fertilizer application maps. He explained the differences between collecting samples at bloom versus veraison, noting that veraison petiole samples showed better correlation with nutrient uptake patterns, though both approaches have value depending on management goals. The presentation covered their three-year variable rate fertilizer trial showing early signs of success in canopy reflectance differences between uniform and variable rate application zones. Dr. Bates also highlighted future research directions including vineyard automation and autonomous equipment development to reduce labor costs in grape production.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer and Andrew wanted to give a couple of quick updates before the regularly planned podcast - PA relief for Refresco growers. It's crop estimation time and there is an EASY button! Jenn shows how to use it. https://lergp.com/crop-estimation-table
Andrew talks about some tariff relief for NY growers and how to access that. Finally a reminder about road safety - see and be seen! Be safe out there!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer and Andrew have some important information to share with the coming heat wave expected in the Lake Erie Region. Sharing tips to help avoid heat cramps, exhaustion and stroke with help from some Cornell resources. They also talk about a recent storm that hit eastern Erie county PA. An SLF update... and finally, getting ready to start crop estimation!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
This episode of "Between the Vines" podcast, hosted by Jennifer Phillips-Russo and Andrew Holden, featured Megan Luke discussing upcoming programs and current industry issues. The team marked the official start of bud break on April 18th, 2026, with Jennifer explaining that Cornell's research station calls bud break when 50% of buds reach 50% pink, while Penn State's phenology block recorded it two days earlier on April 16th. Megan announced the upcoming Coffee Pot meeting series starting the following Wednesday at Cornell AgriTech, focusing on pesticide equipment calibration and hands-on training modules developed through a NERMI grant. Megan explains how pH and turbidity can significantly affect pesticide performance, and Andrew provided updates on USDA supplemental disaster relief payments for 2023-2024 crop losses, noting that a second payment at 70% of allocated funding would be issued, with an extended deadline of August 12th for enrollment.
LERGP.com
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Dr. Jason Londo joins Jennifer in this episode to discuss the recent deep cold we have been having, the tools that we have available, and what to do if you suspect damage. Grab a cup of something warm and come listen!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer and Andrew have a lot to talk about as this year begins. Andrew has some great information about the feedback from his recent survey as well as information regarding a new grant for processors. Then he and Jennifer are excited to tell you about our upcoming Winter Growers Conference that is staffed with some interesting speakers based on the suggestions given to us from our advisory board. Come and listen! We hope to see you at the conference!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program podcast "Between the Vines" features a discussion about drought-like conditions and their impact on vine production, with Dr. Terry Bates and Dr. Alan Lakso sharing insights from their research. The conversation covered various aspects of vine management, including the effects of minimal pruning, irrigation practices, and root development patterns, with particular focus on how different approaches affect yield and water usage. The discussion concluded with historical research findings on cover cropping and row middle management, highlighting how various treatments impact grape root growth and competition.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer and Andrew give updates on the latest news in the region including harvest, rain, lack of rain, yield, grants, government shut down, FSA, spotted lanternfly trials, NEWA, and more!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss the recent very dry conditions in the Lake Erie Region and what that means for the grapevines. Also, we knew it was coming... Jennifer talks about adult Spotted Lanternfly found in WNY.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Dr. Terry Bates guest hosts to answer grower and industry stakeholder concerns about vine health going into the winter and next year as drought conditions this time of year are very rare. What does nutrient uptake look like in these conditions and what should they be worried about. How do they best address it.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Come join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss what is happening in the Lake Erie Region now. Spoiler alert! It's veraison in Concord!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer is joined by Andrew to discuss the quick turn around on the NYS Equipment Grant that closes July 25th
LERGP.com
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Jennifer and Terry discussed the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program meeting's focus on crop estimation and fruit thinning in Concord vineyards, including the importance of yield-to-pruning weight ratios and accurate sampling methods. They explored various techniques for estimating crop yields and emphasized the significance of achieving balanced vineyard conditions through proper thinning practices. The conversation ended with plans for an upcoming demonstration day on July 16th at the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory, where attendees will learn about crop estimation and fruit thinning techniques for sustainable grape production.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Fertilizer Calculators for Concord Vineyards (Beta)
by Dr. Terry Bates.
Dr. Terry Bates emphasizes that the new Nitrogen and Potassium Fertilizer Calculator for Concord Vineyards (Beta) represents a significant step forward in managing vineyard nutrition. By integrating scientific research with practical applications, Dr. Terry Bates and the team are equipping growers with the tools needed to optimize their vineyard practices. For those interested in leveraging this calculator, visit the Efficient Vineyard website and navigate to the viticulture blog. We encourage you to explore this tool and reach out with any questions or feedback.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Dr. Terry Bates emphasizes that accurate crop estimation provides valuable information, allowing growers to decide whether thinning is necessary. Thinning is often debated among growers, but knowing the crop load can significantly influence management decisions. To simplify the estimation process, a crop estimation calculator has been developed. This tool allows growers to input row spacing, vine spacing, days after bloom, how many vines or length of row sampled, weight of fruit in sample, and estimated vine size for the sample. With the information that you input, it calculates the harvest yield prediction. It also factors in pruning weight to calculate the revised index, helping growers understand whether their crop load is balanced or overcropped, and then gives a Thinning Consideration in tons/acre (See Figure 1 below). The calculator aids in making informed decisions about thinning and ultimately helps maintain vine health and productivity.
Dr. Terry Bates emphasizes that accurate crop estimation provides valuable information, allowing growers to decide whether thinning is necessary. Thinning is often debated among growers, but knowing the crop load can significantly influence management decisions. To simplify the estimation process, a crop estimation calculator has been developed. This tool allows growers to input row spacing, vine spacing, days after bloom, how many vines or length of row sampled, weight of fruit in sample, and estimated vine size for the sample. With the information that you input, it calculates the harvest yield prediction. It also factors in pruning weight to calculate the revised index, helping growers understand whether their crop load is balanced or overcropped, and then gives a Thinning Consideration in tons/acre (See Figure 1 below). The calculator aids in making informed decisions about thinning and ultimately helps maintain vine health and productivity.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss the recent weather events in relation to vineyard phenology as well as some discussion on the current market.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Between the Vines hosts Dr. Katie Gold from Cornell University to learn more about her work with fundamental and applied science of plant disease, work with NASA, and Mancozeb updates.
Dr. Kaitlin (Katie) Gold is an Assistant Professor of Grape Pathology in the Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science at Cornell University where she holds primary research and extension responsibilities for grape disease management in New York State.
Dr. Gold’s Grape Sensing, Pathology, and Extension Lab at Cornell (GrapeSPEC) studies the fundamental and applied science of plant disease and plant-microbe interaction sensing to improve integrated grape disease management. The Gold Lab specializes in the use of in situ and imaging spectroscopy (also known as hyperspectral imaging) deployed at a range of spatial scales, from proximal, autonomous rovers to spacecraft, to characterize asymptomatic disease physiology and the impacts of management intervention on early grape disease detection.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Come listen to Jennifer and Andrew talk about important updates on grants as well as a big update in the vineyard! Bud Break!
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss grower interactions and Coffee Pot Meetings starting up again in May. They also chat about getting on a regular podcast schedule as well as making a request for advisory committee members that help direct educational programming efforts by tailoring them to grower needs.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer is joined by Andrew to discuss the 2024 season and look forward to 2025.
LERGP.com
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Jennifer and Terry discuss the effects of the frost event earlier this year and best vineyard management moving forward.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer welcomes Bob Betts of Betts Farm to talk about the Soil Health Day to be held at his farm on Wednesday, June 12th.
She also discusses other upcoming programming including a Precision and Digital Viticulture Field Day on Thursday, June 6th with some exciting demonstrations of upcoming technology.
We ask that you register for each of these events at https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer talks with Terry Bates about the recent frost/freeze event that occurred April 23rd and 24th of this year. Terry shows how the differences can be seen using an NDVI scan of the vineyards at the lab.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Lake Erie Regional Grape Program presents Spotted Lanternfly Updates for the Grape and Wine Industry on May 1, 2024. Discover SLF biology, life cycle, population dynamics, vineyard and non-vineyard research, management strategies, its influence on the grape/wine sector, quality effects, and 2023 population trends. This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Northeast Extension Risk Management Education and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer and Megan talk about upcoming winter and spring educational programming both virtually and in person for the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer is joined this week by Cain Hickey, Assistant Teaching Professor of viticulture at PSU. In addition Cain and Jennifer are joined by three industry consultants with years of experience in the viticulture field.
Jeanette Smith, VineSmith Vineyard Services in Virginina, Mark Chien has a viticulture consulting business in Pennsylvania, and Fritz Westover is located in Texas, Westover Vineyard Advising as well as Virtual Viticulture Academy.
These five will be discussing the 2024 harvest from each of their perspectives.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer, Megan and German discuss the upcoming spray program meeting on December 5th where Megan and Bryan Hed will talk about putting together a program for next year in light of changing regulations and products.
There will be NY and PA Pesticide Applicator Recertification Credits available. To register go to https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/event_preregistration_new.php?id=583.
LERGP.com
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Jennifer is joined by Megan Luke and German Vargas to give you an opportunity to meet the team! We are still working on the business management specialist, but are excited to be able to be that much closer to a full team.
LERGP.com
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Jennifer welcomes Dr. Terry Bates again to talk about impending harvest and sugar accumulation. They also talk more about soil nutrition and the relationship to pH.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer is joined by Dr. Terry Bates to talk about the upcoming harvest and how myEV can be used for helping to facilitate harvest planning and so much more.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer welcomes Terry back to talk about #6 of his Top 10 Nutrient Slides - Potted Grapevine Studies: Soil, pH, Phylloxera, Mycorrhizae. They also address that we are approaching veraison - keep an eye out for early ripening vines and think about thinning if it is needed.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
The growing season is flying by. We are three weeks out from Concord veraison and looking at the harvest doorstep three more weeks after that. It is a good time to finish up crop estimations, if you did not do them at 30 days post-bloom, and take some assessments of vine balance to decide when and where you will start harvesting. In this video, Dr. Terry Bates demonstrates how to use canopy NDVI at pre-bloom and pre-veraison with some directed field observations to generate spatial yield, vine size, and crop load maps in Concord vineyards.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer talks labor with Dr. Richard Stup from Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development about agriculture unionization and changes in the H2A program.
LERGP.com
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Terry and Jenn finish up the Nitrogen portion of the nutrient research and gear up for pH studies! Terry recaps the West Tier study, talks about Nitrogen Fertilizer Efficiency, and Nitrogen Management.
LERGP.com
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Dr. Terry Bates and Jennifer discuss the multiple decade multiple factorial study that helped form our knowledge on vineyard nutrition and basis of our recommendations. The original West Tier publication back in 1969:
Shaulis N, Steele RD. 1969. The interaction of resistant rootstock to the nitrogen, weed control, pruning, and thinning on the productivity of Concord grapevines. J Am Soc Hortic Sci 91:122–129.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Terry Bates are back again to discuss #3 of his top ten nutrient studies - the Concord Vine Excavation Study of own rooted vines vs 3309.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Terry Bates spend time discussing the Big Dig nutrient study on mature Concord grapevines. This work is part of the basis of our nutrient recommendations. Join us on this nutrient journey!
LERGP.com
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Jennifer Phillips Russo of Cornell Extension and Bryan Hed from Penn State University touch base about the possibility of cold damage to tender grape bud tissues and dive deep into a discussion about early season diseases, management, and timing. Join us to hear about resources available for operations and more.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Terry Bates discuss Terry’s Top Ten Research Studies in nutrition that have helped formulate today’s nutrient recommendations for vineyard management. Learn about Terry’s #1 process on the list, the how and why of this particular study was started, the findings, and what role it plays in today’s recommendations. This is the first of a ten podcast series.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Cornell University’s Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Jason Londo discuss the grapevine bud progression, the unseasonably warm weather, and the threat of snow on swollen buds. What are their chances?
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Kevin, Jennifer and Megan talk about the upcoming Growers Conference. Introducing Megan Luke as our new team member from PSU, and saying goodbye to Kevin.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
Jenn and Kevin give the rundown on the conference at SUNY Fredonia on March 16th. Also, we discuss current macroeconomic events and deacclimation.
LERGP.com
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With low temperatures hitting parts of the US we check in with Cornell’s expert in Cold Hardiness, Dr. Jason Londo. The headlines say -15 below so we talk wind chill vs temperature and how cold is too cold right now. Of course, that depends heavily on your location. Check out his model for more information about your specific location: https://grapecoldhardiness.shinyapps.io/grape_freezing_tolerance/?_ga=2.44302822.378514422.1664933625-1102627896.1660254134
LERGP.com
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We have a conference coming up, among a host of other winter educational opportunities to improve vineyard management and farm business. In the meantime, LERGP takes a second to check out what is going on in the fertilizer market.
LERGP.com
https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php
LERGP discusses happenings this winter. Bud cutting, temperature data, sensors, fertilizer and labor prices. Stay tuned for virtual and in person meeting opportunities.
LERGP.com
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With harvest behind us Kevin and Jenn discuss strategies for 2023. Economic conditions are key to planning for 2023. Volatility should be expected in the prices of many things for 2023. Short-term practices should anticipate elevated grape prices. Longer term
LERGP.com
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Harvest is continuing to progress with varying results. Variable crop load last year is directly translating to different challenges this year. Some growers are wrapping up progress this week. A few are just getting started. In general, more than half of tonnage is contained. This week, Jenn and Kevin discuss efficiently harvesting in these conditions and more.
LERGP.com
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Jenn and Kevin discuss reports of variable harvest conditions. Brix and yield are creating some logistical challenges but nothing growers and processors cannot handle. NEWA stations also indicated some variability in rainfall. Rainfall in the Lake Erie Region ranged from too much to way too much.
Just getting started with Concord harvest. Best of luck to growers avoiding dodgy weather and staying safe.
Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. There is some price data from the Finger Lakes Survey, but more would be better. Prices are following Lake Erie trends but we discuss some important differences. Berry curve measurements continue as harvest approaches.
Spotted Lanternfly was found in Buffalo, NY. LERGP discusses the impact of an established population in the Lake Erie Region. Throughout harvest season in the Lake Erie Region growers will need to scout and start to play for the next couple of years.
Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. Grape Berry Moths should be heading into diapause currently, but this warm summer trend indicates that we might be on course for an extra generation this year. Keep an eye on the NEWA model so you can stay on top of it. The demonstration meeting originally scheduled for early this month has been rescheduled for August 31st. Veraison is right around the corner!
Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. It’s time to spray for berry moth. The GBM model got a new look last year. Jenn discusses differences in the look, the model remains the same.
Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. It will soon be time to start scouting for GBM generation #3. Growers are taking advantage of timely rainfall to seed cover crops. The mixes are a bit different this year but rain this week makes successful establishment very likely.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Dr. Terry Bates joins Kevin and Jennifer to discuss the effects of the current water availability (or lack thereof) for the vines in the area.
The venerable Andrew Muza has retired from Penn State Extension. Andy was a pleasure to work with and a dedicated extension agent. Always busy but willing to take time to do just a little bit more, we sat down with Andy over his last few weeks to share some of his most important work over his career. While he will be missed in the industry, the one thing we will try very hard to do is make sure knowledge is not lost with his retirement.
It’s time for crop estimation again in the Lake Erie Region. Jennifer and Kevin discuss that, as well as a recent report of a Spotted Lanternfly in the region. LERGP will be hosting a number of events in the coming weeks beginning with an H-2A informational meeting on Monday, July 11th 9:00-12:30 at CLEREL in Portland. Coffee pot meetings continue, and a Summer Demonstration Conference will be held at CLEREL on August 2nd.
The venerable Andrew Muza has retired from Penn State Extension. Andy was a pleasure to work with and a dedicated extension agent. Always busy but willing to take time to do just a little bit more, we sat down with Andy over his last few weeks to share some of his most important work over his career. While he will be missed in the industry, the one thing we will try very hard to do is make sure knowledge is not lost with his retirement.
The venerable Andrew Muza has retired from Penn State Extension. Andy was a pleasure to work with and a dedicated extension agent. Always busy but willing to take time to do just a little bit more, we sat down with Andy over his last few weeks to share some of his most important work over his career. While he will be missed in the industry, the one thing we will try very hard to do is make sure knowledge is not lost with his retirement.
Guest, Dr. Mary Centralla, director of CCE Pesticide Safety Education Program (CCE PSEP) shares techniques for avoiding and managing pesticide incompatibility. Mary discusses both physical and chemical compatibility. We’ve all heard the problems with physical compatibility, such as when a sludge is nearly impossible to remove from a sprayer. Mary also shares examples of chemical incompatibility. We don’t hear a lot about chemical incompatibility from growers, it is often an invisible issue, but instances of chemical incompatibility can render applications of chemicals ineffective.
Guest, Dr. Terry Bates joins the pod to discuss research to improve the efficiency of mechanization. You might just see some blades hanging off the side of the tractor. However, work that began in 1970 has evolved. While we don’t have robots just yet (he’s working on that), techniques to improve bud quantity and quality are increasing the speed of both hand follow-up and mechanical pruning. This evolution is both timely and valuable as the region experiences a labor shortage.
Labor Shortages and rising costs could eventually transform some production practices. Higher pay and improving working conditions has been a solution for many growers. The rapid increase in hourly pay is a bit of a shock for some, but has been effective. As far as more drastic measures, coffee pot meetings with growers show that the industry is considering options but keeping it business as usual. So long as grape prices remain high, generating yields with known practices is taking priority. Labor shortages have forced some growers into change this year.
Bud Break! Jennifer Phillips Russo has an update on Concord Bud break, and we share the bloom forecast from Dr. Bates. Inflation data is still red-hot, last-minute supplies are tricky to find.
The LERGP team comes together to talk about the beginning of the growing season. Jennifer Phillips Russo gives an update on the current phenology in the vineyards. Andy Muza addresses the pests that we should be on the lookout for.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Andy Muza (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo talks liming soil. As fertilizer prices rise it becomes even more critical to understand the role pH has in fertilizer efficiency and soil health. Soil samples in the region this year reveal more lime is needed for sustainable grape production.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Kevin talks with Kim Knappenberger about the Vineyard Improvement Program. This 5 year program has about 1 1/2 years remaining so prospective applicants are encouraged to apply.
Dr. Jason Londo joins the podcast today. Jason joined the Horticulture Section faculty in 2022 as an associate professor of fruit crop physiology and climate adaptation. Previously, as a Research Geneticist with the USDA-ARS Grape Genetics Unit, he has been a long-time PI leading LERGP and others in studying grapevine cold hardiness in the east.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Dr. Jason Londo (guest speaker)
Part 1: After freezing buds all year, we’ve got one more sign of spring. Deacclimation. While we aren’t approaching bud break yet, warm temperatures have started the process. Jennifer Phillips Russo discusses how LERGP tracks this information. Stay tuned next week for part 2 with “new” Cornell Scientist Dr. Jason Lundo
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
As input costs are continue to increase and personal budgets are also stretched thin, inflation is becoming more obvious. So when will interest rates rise? High grape prices mean higher levels of interest in capital investment as growers consider improving farm efficiency. Is now the right time? That all depends on the individual farm as debt costs rise. Kevin Martin and Andy Muza discuss.
Bryan Hed drops in for a discussion on the re-registration and usage of two fungicide materials commonly utilized by grape growers in New York State, Ziram and Iodiprone (trade name Rovral). EPA regularly solicits comments from the public before making registration decisions. You can comment here:
Pesticide Registration Review; Proposed Interim Decisions for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability
Kevin Martin (host)
Andrew Muza (host)
Bryan Hed (guest)
NY and PA guidelines will be out next month. Andy Muza, the editor of the guide, highlights some key changes since 2020. While not a lot of new chemicals, you’ll want to hear about these new tools.
Our growers' conference is coming up! You can register here:
LERGP Winter Conference Series
If you’d like to hear the full recording of both virtual events all registered guests can request a copy of the recording.
It’s time to forecast cash flow for 2022. Kevin Martin is on hand with some tips.
Kevin Martin (host)
Andrew Muza (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
The hybrid growers' conference is in full swing. Today the podcast shares excerpts from the second virtual event as part of the hybrid grower conference. Next month we’ll be in person with our regular trade show at SUNY Fredonia. You can register here: https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/event.php?id=519
If you’d like to hear the full recording of both virtual events all registered guests can request a copy of the recording.
Kevin Martin (host)
Andrew Muza (host)
Dr. Lynn S Sosnoskie (guest)
Bryan Hed (Guest)
New York State is in the process of changing overtime rules for agriculture. The labor board has recommended phasing in a 40-hour workweek over the next ten years. The labor board cannot act alone, these recommendations will have a public comment period and be reviewed by the Department of Labor. Also, we start to get into the nitty-gritty. What will this mean for specialty crop growers in Erie County, PA? What about New York State growers?
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Dr. Terry Bates (Guest)
Dr. Bates joins the team for a primer on how soil pH impacts nutrient uptake. Soil pH management is essential in the Lake Erie Region. Nearly all soils are acidic. Dr. Bates discusses how managing that pH can impact the availability of nutrients and indirectly impact vine size and yield potential. Some great graphical references are included.
If you’re interested take a look at lergp.com/podcasts.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Dr. Terry Bates (Guest)
LERGP discusses employee-based succession planning and H2A workers and how these tools might reduce labor shortages. The long cold winter has increased pressure on pruning crews as snow has slowed their progress compared to some recent winters. Low winter temperatures might pose some risk to bud survival as well, Jennifer discusses what she has learned.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Andy Muza (host)
In part one, LERGP looks at Cation Exchange Capacity or CEC—how it works and what the implications may mean for your operation. On one hand, changing CEC is never easy. On the other hand, knowing CEC can help growers determine the importance of split applications, the volume of lime required, and the relative value of water conservation.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
There are different ways to sample soils in vineyards. In agriculture, we are seeing a trend toward increasing the density of soil sampling. The team discusses strategies for maximizing the value of sample results and the different methods for increasing the number of samples taken. This discussion is the beginning of a series in a primer for vineyard nutritional management. Over the next 8 weeks, we will cover all the macronutrients as well as other issues related to soil health.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP) discusses the hybrid conference format. We are bringing you more content than ever before, at least that’s the plan. It kicks off with a virtual event in just two weeks. The new year brings new labor regulations as well. Kevin Martin, Business Management specialist, discusses what we don’t know and what we do know.
Registration for the Winter Grape Grower Conference is available at: https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Andy Muza (host)
Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP) invites Dr. Bates to discuss ongoing and upcoming research at the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory (CLEREL) and Cornell University. We jump right into the “why” and “how” growers will benefit from these developments.
Sure, nutrient prices are going crazy, but more research updates show how it is not just nutrients. Current research at CLEREL aims to address labor shortages and technology. Dr. Bates uses video tools to illustrate his points, so to get the full picture visit https://lergp.com/podcasts and select S2 Episode 4.
Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP) invites Dr. Bates to discuss ongoing and upcoming research at the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory (CLEREL) and Cornell University. We jump right into the “why” and “how” growers will benefit from these developments. Dr. Bates uses video tools to illustrate his points, so to get the full picture visit https://lergp.com/podcasts and select S2 Episode 3.
LERGP discusses the unique challenges for 2022. We focus on the top viticulture, business management, and disease management challenges because of 2021 field conditions.
Effects of NY Overtime Laws on Agricultural Production Costs and Competitiveness
Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP) business management educator and Between the Vines host, Kevin Martin discusses trends in wine grape prices. The team also gets into the characteristics of supply and demand for wine grapes as well as the mid-term outlook. Data indicated a high discrepancy between low and high prices. Individual growers are adding value to a product that is looking more and more like a commodity on average. We want to know how you’re doing that. So if that’s been your business model, contact LERGP. Also, join the NY Wine and Grape Foundation as this organization looks to provide tools to do just that.
Kevin and Andy discuss the results of the past season and what the upcoming dormant period looks like for growers.
Kevin Martin - host
Andy Muza - host
The harvest is turning into a late one as it extends beyond four weeks and into a fifth or even sixth week for Concords. While brix accumulation slows to a snail’s pace; it seems dehydration and shelling are highly variable. Despite challenges and less than optimal results, overall regional harvesters are reporting potential success. The next ten days or so will impact the level of that success significantly for some growers. It appears that certain areas, such as North East, PA will see final results a bit earlier.
Speakers:
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Andy Muza (host)
The team discusses grower questions including upcoming events and crop load.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Andy Muza (host)
The team discusses Brix accumulation continues with rainfall finally decreasing in frequency. Also, growers are reporting unusually high variance in yield and Brix. It appears crop loads vary more this year from site to site than other years. Currently, this is presenting some logistical challenges, but it is possible that an extended October will allow most or all of the crop to accumulate Brix to levels that meet grower goals.
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Things just got a little more exciting in the tractor world. As growers appear to have begun a successful harvest season we turn, albeit a little early, to the tractor buying season. However, we’ve got a bit of breaking news and some information on how long these delays will continue. Tune in to find out and we’ll also let you know what we are seeing in vineyards.
Kevin Martin (host)
Andy Muza (host)
Jennifer introduces Dr. Terry Bates as her guest for this podcast. Terry is the director of the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory in Portland, NY, and the PI of the Efficient Vineyard SCRI project. They discuss the new myEV tool available to growers. This is an open-source platform that can be used to create maps of a user’s vineyards/farms, collect spatial data, view variability, and then use that information to help them manage that variability in an effort to be more efficient.
Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Dr. Terry Bates (special guest)
LERGP invites guest Dr. Cain Hickey to share his perspective on the 2021 Pennsylvania vintage. Dr. Hickey’s statewide perspective on grape production in Pennsylvania includes successes and challenges of microclimates around the state that are much different from the experiences we have had in the Lake Erie Region this year.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Dr. Hickey (guest)
The team has information on the current state of the Concord canopy. If you see black leaf this time of year, make a note. While it’s too late to act, it’s essential that your fertilizer inputs go into motion next year. Also, if you see it, make sure you take petiole samples. Once you see something, measure something. We’ve also got information on recent trends in potash and labor. Andy is back from the vineyards with observations from the field.
We know inflation is bad news for grape growers most of the time. We’ve got more scary headline inflation numbers in August. These numbers need some context before making any changes in business plans. So, if inflation has you worried take a listen for some perspective on what makes these events unique and less worrisome, for now. Also, vines are maturing nicely as mostly healthy canopies are slowly but surely ripening some heavy crops.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Everyone is still excited about veraison. The wet July delayed this key benchmark in phenology development by 3.5 days. Bloom was 7 days early so we are still in okay shape for some higher quality crops. More grape price data is in; this week the team discusses price trends in other varieties. This benchmark phenology helps plan and schedule harvest.
Today the team gives an update on veraison. This benchmark phenology helps plan and schedule harvest. August 15th is price announcement day in New York State for grapes. We have most prices on Concords and other grapes.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
This week the team talks about color changes in the vineyard, price announcements in New York next week, and answers grower questions on bulk harvest.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
It is planting time in the Lake Erie Region. In our region August usually brings ample rainfall and competition for water is reduced. A rainy July moved some planting dates up a couple of weeks. The team discusses why cover cropping is gaining steam and how to get started safely in a perennial system.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
High crop load management requires all the tools in the toolbox. Join us for a discussion about these tools. We talk past, present, and future with regional growers, Dr. Terry Bates and Bryan Hed. Risk management will be easier with veraison forecasted for August 15th but some unusual crop loads do require special consideration.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andrew Muza (co-host)
Dr. Terry Bates (Guest)
With labor in short supply Special Guest Dr. R. Stup, a workforce development specialist, discusses strategies for improving access to labor. With labor costs increasing growers need multiple tools to solve the problem. Growers will likely need to implement multiple strategies to cope with the tight labor markets.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Dr. Richard Stup (Guest)
Special Guest Dr. T Bates discusses crop estimation results and the factors that influence a decision to thin a crop. Factors include the bloom date, precipitation, growing degree days and the market. Some factors are more important than others but in vineyards that did not suffer hail or freeze damage, over-cropping is a concern in 2021.
The team discusses calendar and degree-day timing. In the Lake Erie region, it is time to scout and spray for Grape Berry Moth. Crop Estimation timing is just one week away. Local weather stations tracking growing degree days for GBM control vary by 10 days.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Lead Image: Credit Kim Knappenberger
Dr. Terry Bates joins LERGP as a special guest for a virtual coffee pot. Terry covers best practices and future research in vineyard nutrition. Success in Lake Erie Concord production requires pH modification along with balancing magnesium and potassium demands.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Dr. Terry Bates (guest)
Bryan Hed joins us for an evening of disease control. The post-bloom period is absolutely critical. Bryan has some tips and research results to maximize the effectiveness of this essential spray application. The team also discusses phenology, weed control and Revus Top resistance news. We cover a lot so bring this pod to the tractor as you put this spray on.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Bryan Hed (guest)
Lead Image: Bryan Hed
We are in the critical time for supplemental nitrogen application. These applications are usually best made two weeks prior to bloom. Jenn and the team discuss soil testing, nitrogen needs, and other nutrient requirements of grapevines.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Lead Image: Kevin Martin
Mark your calendars for wild grape bloom. It was observed as early as May 25th and occurred as late as June 2nd according to the NEWA model. This suggests that grape bloom is right around the corner. The team discusses everything that needs to be done before trace bloom and bloom.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Loraine Post with Chautauqua County Farm Services Agency joins LERGP for a run-down of grape-related programs offered by FSA, USDA. The presentation touches on one-time programs in 2020 but also covers programs still available.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Loraine Post (guest)
Photo Credit: Luke Haggerty
Last week we covered secondary pests. This week Dr. Loeb joins LERGP to discuss some of the primary insects that impact grape production. Spotted lanternfly continues its march toward the Lake Erie Region. Grape Berry Moth also persists as growers find new ways to control this old favorite.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Dr. Greg Loeb (guest)
Lead Image: Webbing on Concord cluster. Photo: Tim Weigle
It is the season for scouting secondary pests. If you’ve never had an established population of a secondary pest, tune in for a reminder of scouting protocols and economic thresholds. Some of these when populations get established can significantly impact yield, despite their secondary status. Scouting and even pesticide applications can be essential.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Lead Image: Andy Muza
We all love warm weather and sunshine but how do we manage vineyards in this unusual weather pattern? Warm weather and sunshine have all but eliminated infection periods in the Lake Erie Region over the past 10 days. With low disease pressure, how flexible can spray schedules get? How do crop load and frost damage change that calculus? The team tackles this risk management conundrum.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Lead Image: Jennifer Phillips Russo
Dr. Gold joins the LERGP team to kick-off the virtual coffee pot series for 2021. Dr. Gold discusses early season disease control, Gold lab research projects, and resistance management. Coffee pot meetings are live every Wednesday.
Register at https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/ for pesticide recertification credits in NY and PA.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Dr. Katie Gold (Guest)
Photo Credit: Dr. Gold
Unseasonably cold weather has slowed down the growing season. The team covers disease models and spray timing in a frost year. Also, a frost damage assessment has been complicated by partially damaged shoots in some areas. Secondary buds are well underway where frost damage was severe.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Frost damaged buds in the Lake Erie Region last week. The team discusses the importance and process to assess damages. High commodity prices, input costs, and grape prices influence the management of vineyards and damaged vineyards. Stay the course and assess damage for now. With elevated grapes prices an accurate damage assessment is essential before changing any management practices.
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Andy Muza (co-host)
Photo Credit: Jennifer Phillips Russo – LERGP
Another Frost Event hits Erie County, PA. The team discusses damage assessment and bud dissection. SBA resources for farmers continue to evolve in response to Covid-19. Funding for farmers and wineries in this update.
Resources for the bud assessment:
http://www.hort.cornell.edu/goffinet/Anatomy_of_Winter_Injury_hi_res.pdf
Luke Haggerty - https://lergp.com/winter-damage
Hans Walter-Peterson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RHJ5mY3fAs and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWtr0jzI2Dk
Episode Hosts:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (co-host)
Kevin Martin (co-host)
Photo Credit: Kim Knappenberger - LERGP
Official bud break in the phenology block was April 20th. Low temperatures were cause for concern the very next morning. Guests Dr. T. Bates and Hans-Walter Peterson discuss the damage, risk management practices, and tools for assessing damage over the next few weeks.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Kevin Martin (host/speaker)
Photo Credit: Kim Knappenberger, LERGP
Kevin talks about the recent uptick in the price of fertilizers. This comes on the heels of some gradual price increases through the past year. Although it is going up Kevin reminds growers to keep it all in context.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Kevin Martin (host/speaker)
Photo Credit: Kim Knappenberger, (LERGP) spreading lime at Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory (CLEREL)
Bud burst was widely observed in much of the region. With the growing season arriving early the team talks about frost protection, risk management, and more.
Episode Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Kevin Martin (host/speaker)
Photo Credit: Kim Knappenberger, LERGP
With warm temperatures moving buds along and Lake Erie warming up early, what can a concerned grower do? Jennifer continues to describe her bud hardiness trial that has been ongoing during the winter of 2020-2021 in the Lake Erie Region.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host/speaker)
Kevin Martin (host)
Lead Image: Modified Shaulis Field Score
Kevin discusses the labor issues that the grape growers in the Lake Erie Region are currently facing. There are definite differences in labor costs along the state line between New York and Pennsylvania. The discussion went to capital investments that could potentially reduce or remove labor issues.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host)
Kevin Martin (host/speaker)
Photo Credit: Kim Knappenberger, Lake Erie Regional Grape Research and Extension Center
Caption: Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory (CLEREL) staff pruning Concord vines.
Jennifer describes her bud hardiness trial that has been ongoing during the winter of 2020-2021 in the Lake Erie Region. She has been getting updates on the hardiness of these buds every other week.
Episode Host/Speakers:
Jennifer Phillips Russo (host/speaker)
Kevin Martin (host)
Photo Credit: Kim Knappenberger, LERGP
Caption: Jennifer Phillips Russo cutting canes for bud collection
Lake Erie Regional Grape Research and Extension Center (LERGP) introduces the team and the podcast. The industry is focused on the beginning of the growing season, prices, and labor. LERGP will tackle these issues in upcoming podcasts.
Episode Hosts: Kevin Martin, Jennifer Phillips Russo, and Andrew Muza