Method of Planting
What we use (machine)
VSL operates the UK's only mechanical vine planting machine. We run a Wagner Champion 2, double row planter. The double row planter enables us to plant the same volume of plants as a single row machine, whilst travelling at a considerably slower speed. This results better quality of plantation, achieved through a more even root distribution in the soil, and a more complete backfill of soil into the planting hole.The machine is guided by laser, to achieve perfectly, straight parallel vine rows:
Uniformity - Our machined planting method ensures a uniformity that is simply not achievable using manual labour .Vine roots should ideally be trimmed to 10cm length. In conjunction with spending the time setting up the planting machines adjustable parameters to suit your particular soil this
should avoid the phenomenon known as ‘J' rooting This stops root ends trailing along the floor of the planting trench, which prevents root penetration down through the soil profile.Sadly ,when attention to tailoring machine adjustment to each vineyards requirements and operation is rushed symptoms take years to become apparent in the form of smaller diameter stems on verticals and subtlely lower yields
- Root positioning. Our planting ensures that roots are positioned to point downwards in a fanlike formation. This avoids the problems associated with vine roots growing back up towards the soil surface if not planted properly by hand:
- Every plant sits in the ground at a uniform depth. This is vital for even uptake of soil moisture. Plants not set deep enough in the ground will suffer prematurely from water stress, as the top soil dries out during summer.
Vine roots not covered in moist soil will quickly die off in dry weather, and we pay particular attention to this. VSL will not plant until happy with the grade of soil tilth that has been created. We use the fine tilth to ensure that the planting trench is completely filled back up with earth, so that no air pockets remain around the roots of the newly planted vines.
