Deep root irrigation (DRI) has proven successful in many crops where root systems run deep. Wineries in particular have found that DRI
increases overall output when. Grape crops thrive when irrigation systems allow water to go deeper to reach all of the roots.
Benefits of DRI
Using deep root irrigation for grapevine crops is one way to build on the sustainability of grape farming and use the water to its full potential. DRI reduces waste by controlling the target of the water and adjusting it to the appropriate level of water pressure and length of time of the irrigation.
Less water is required for DRI, so less power is needed to drive the irrigation process. The efficient water usage of DRI is less than with conventional irrigation systems as it goes to the deep roots and isn’t near the ground surface where it ordinarily could be wasted.
Utilizing deep root irrigation for your vineyards will help ensure their growth during times of drought or near-drought conditions. Weather will have little bearing on your vineyard when you know you control the irrigation process.
The increased chlorophyll content is a benefit of DRI as well. It will add to the color of grape leaves and their overall health, resulting in flavorful wine.
Root Zone and Deep Root Irrigation
More than half of a grapevine’s roots are closest to ground level. The total length of the roots can go down sometimes up to 20 feet into the soil. The root zone is the area of the roots that take in water and fertilization most optimally.
The root systems of all varietals of grapes are not the same. Root systems can differ and can make for different root zones. DRI can be set accordingly for each type of grapevine to yield the best grapes possible.
DRI can reach the root zone depth to focus on the most accepting roots. The process of DRI is largely for this reason and was developed for the purpose of reaching roots of certain crops that require more focused irrigation. Vineyards are one of the top agricultural lands that can best benefit from DRI given the root systems of grapevines.
Best Growing Season for Grapes
As with different root systems and root zones, different varietals have slightly different seasons in which they flourish and can be harvested to provide the best crop. This depends on the climate in which they are planted. The main time to plant your grapevines is after the coldest weather has passed. This can be adjusted as necessary for your climate.
Some grapes need a cooler climate, while others prefer the sunny summers and mild winters common in the Mediterranean. Grapes from some locales are sturdier to withstand harsher weather, but they also tend to make a less flavorful wine. These grapes are usually used in other ways that are still tasty.