Responsible Spray Practices

Pesticide and fungicide applications play a role in integrated pest management (IPM), but when and how you spray can make all the difference—for your vines, your crew, your neighbors, and the surrounding ecosystem. With tighter regulations, climate variability, and increased community awareness, it’s critical that growers approach each spray event with intention, precision, and care.
Below is a framework for science-based, sustainable decision-making around pesticide applications. These principles help ensure each application is safe, compliant, and effective.

1. Pest Identification

• Clearly define the target pest or disease before applying anything
• Confirm whether the pest population has reached an economic threshold or poses a risk of unacceptable damage if left untreated
• Avoid prophylactic or calendar-based applications unless supported by environmental modeling (e.g., powdery mildew risk indexes)

2. Information and Professional Guidance

• Secure a licensed Pest Control Advisor (PCA) recommendation when required by law
• Review the product label and SDS (Safety Data Sheet) thoroughly, and ensure the product is registered for use on grapes and appropriate for the stage of vine growth
• Evaluate all environmental factors—temperature, humidity, wind speed, and inversion risk—to plan safe and effective application timing
• Consider whether a different time of day or weather window would minimize drift and maximize efficacy

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