Irrigation

Q. What are the rules around irrigation in vineyards?

A: There are no rules exactly, although there did used to be a ban on irrigating vines but that has been lifted for 10 years or more now. However, it is important that the system is designed correctly and that the vines don’t get over-watered.

Q. What are the different irrigation methods available?

A: Micro sprinklers and drip irrigation are the main two options, with drip being the most economical and e ective system.

Q. What are the main bene ts?

A: The main bene ts of an irrigation system would be to make sure that the vines have water when it is needed so that they do not become too stressed, which could result in a reduction in production. It can also assist in late frost control, as well as doubling up as a fertigation system.

Q. What is fertigation and how can it work alongside irrigation?

A: Fertigation is very bene cial as this is a perfectly measured way of getting the correct feeds directly to the root zone. A fertiliser mixing and injecting system can be added into the irrigation control so feeds can be mixed and added into the water as required. What feeds are used and when to use them will depend on soil types and may require recommendations from specialists in this eld.

Q. When is it best to install a vineyard irrigation system?

A: The best time to install an irrigation system would be when the planting or the structure is put in place; to irrigate and fertigate from the start consortium has enabled us to investigate the e ects of some novel nutritional and biostimulant products in our commercial area. In 2022, we tested YaraVita’s ‘Actisil’ and ‘BioNue’ products to assess the e ect on yield, fruit quality and shelf-life in Malling Champion, along with an iron product’s e ect on fruit quality. We also quanti ed the e ects of Stoller’s products ‘Flower Power’ and ‘Green Forge’ in improving tolerance to, and recovery from, heat stress (a good year to do this!) along with their potential to improve yields, fruit quality and shelf-life. Another Stoller product (N Less Advanced Solution) was used to understand if it allows us to lower nitrogen application rates without incurring any yield penalty.

Anyone wishing to learn more about the WET Centre or potential involvement in the work carried out there should contact wetcentre@niab.com will boost the vines, reduce risk of the young vines drying out and dying and ultimately give you a faster and more guaranteed return on investment. However, an irrigation system can be installed at any time and there is no vineyard that is too big or too small to bene t from irrigation.

Q. Can growers install irrigation systems themselves or should they use a professional?

A: We strongly recommend having the system designed by a professional as it is critical to get the water hydraulics correct; it is advisable to get the control side installed by professionals too, but the pipes and driplines in the eld can be done by the grower if the plan is followed.

Q. What are the ongoing maintenance requirements for an irrigation/fertigation system?

A: Maintenance needed for the system is minimal, but it will need the lters checked, the pumps maintained and the system run up and checked before each season.

Plantex says it is the UK’s leading supplier of commercial irrigation systems. Specialising in design, supply and installation for top fruit/soft fruit growers and irrigation and frost protection systems designed speci cally for vineyards. With over 20 years’ experience in the farming and fruit growing industry, Plantex can provide advice to help you get the return on investment from your crop: www.plantexuk.com