![]() It’s rare to see a vineyard without a lush green carpet of plants sprouting after the first rains of fall. These plants, called cover crops, are intentionally planted between vineyard rows, and they’ve become a standard practice in Napa Valley—for good reason. Cover crops provide a host of benefits that support healthy vineyards and the environment, all while looking beautiful in the winter fog. So, what do cover crops actually do? Think of them as nature’s multitaskers. They help rainwater soak into the ground more effectively, keep the soil in place, and boost soil health by adding organic material. Some cover crops, like legumes (think peas and beans), even pull nitrogen from the air and store it in their roots, creating a natural fertilizer for the vines. This helps keep the vineyard healthy without needing extra chemicals. ![]() In vineyards where the vines grow a bit too vigorously, grasses might be planted. These grasses use up extra water and nutrients, balancing vine growth. They’re often left to grow and then mowed, with some reseeding themselves for next year—less soil disturbance, more long-term benefits. Finally, flowering cover crops like wildflowers provide a feast for beneficial insects, keeping the vineyard buzzing with biodiversity. These helpful bugs can naturally reduce pest problems, creating a healthier ecosystem. Plus, a vineyard in bloom under the morning fog? It’s a picture-perfect way to show how farming can work hand-in-hand with nature. Cover crops are just one of the many ways Napa Valley’s growers work to care for the land year-round, proving that excellence in farming isn’t just clear-cut—it’s often foggy!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
The FOG Blog is your go-to guide for understanding the growing season in Napa Valley—no farming degree required! We lift the mist on vineyard care, seasonal practices, and sustainable farming, breaking it all down in simple, easy-to-digest terms. Whether you're a wine lover or just curious about what happens in the fields, the FOG Blog will keep you informed and connected to the land behind the vines.
Archives
March 2025
Categories |
Trade Resources: Speakers | Press | Sponsors
Copyright Napa Valley Grapegrowers. All Rights Reserved. 831 Latour Court, Suite A | Napa, CA 94558 Phone: (707) 944-8311 | [email protected] Privacy Policy | Sitemap | All header images © Sarah Anne Risk Napa Valley Grapegrowers is a 501(c)3 public charity. Our federal tax ID number is # 82-2012860 |
Sign-up for our community newsletter
Subscribe to Friends of the Grapegrowers (FOG) to receive exclusive updates, educational workshops, vineyard tours, special events, and a quarterly newsletter with insights into Napa Valley grape-growing, sustainability, climate initiatives, and the latest trends in viticulture.
|