viticulture

Greata Ranch Vineyard between Summerland and Peachland

In a casual discussion about learning last night, I realized that I don't recall having taken a formal course of anything for close to five years. I have done a lot of reading and learning on my own but I've been missing having a little bit of external motivation. The brain needs exercise. Jeremy pointed me and a friend towards this course in "Cool Climate Viticulture" in March and I signed up this morning:

”This intensive, five-day short course will introduce the viticulture skills and knowledge required to work in or manage a cool coastal climate vineyard. Students will learn about the physiology of the vine, establishing a vineyard, pruning and trellising techniques and key management tools such as irrigation, pests and diseases and canopy management. Who should attend? Horticulture professionals, wine grape growers, vineyard managers and others interested in improving their skills and service to the cool coastal climate viticulture sector of our region. This Cool Coastal Climate Viticulture Short Course experience will include four days of classroom and a vineyard tour. A certificate of completion will be offered to attendees successfully completing optional exams administered during the program. The following topics will be covered; -Grapevine phenology, growth cycles and stages of development, varieties and rootstocks. -The vineyard year, management and timing of cultural practices. -Site selection, preparation, cool coastal climate considerations and grapevine propagation. -Timing and principles of pruning, pruning systems, yield determination, training and trellising systems. -Soils, fertility and nutrition, cover crop management. -Irrigation systems, soil moisture management, canopy management. -A field trip to local vineyards.”

It's a pretty long description but it's essentially about how to grow grapes for wine. Given the insane amount of vineyards and wineries in the area it's not a bad idea for potential employment. It combines interests I have both in wine and gardening, which is the main motivation for taking it. I have to remind myself it's okay to take a course because it looks fun and interesting, this does not have to be a life quest or means to an end. I'm looking forward to the 5-day intensive learning!