Now we’re talking about black gold! Composting is a vineyard practice that has grown in popularity from Carneros to Calistoga, and for good reason—it’s a sustainable way to give back to the soil and support a healthy vineyard ecosystem. Rich in organic matter and teeming with microbes, compost boosts soil health by encouraging microbial activity and improving the structure and fertility of the soil. ![]() In Napa Valley, spent grape skins and seeds—called pomace—are often recycled into compost after being pressed at the winery. Some vintners even make their compost onsite and return it to their vineyards in the fall, creating a perfect farm-to-farm cycle. Compost can be spread across the entire vineyard floor or applied directly beneath the vine rows, depending on the vineyard’s needs. Many vineyards follow a composting rotation, applying about 5 tons per acre every three years. However, struggling blocks or soil needing extra attention might see compost applied more frequently or at higher rates to give it a boost. You might have also heard of compost tea—a liquid version of compost created by steeping it in water with added oxygen for about 24 hours. The result is a microbe-rich liquid that can be added to drip irrigation systems throughout the year, providing a steady dose of beneficial microbes to the soil and vines. Want to dive deeper into the science behind compost? Dr. Elaine Ingham, a renowned soil microbiologist, has dedicated her career to understanding the soil food web and its importance in healthy farming practices. Check out her website at soilfoodweb.com for tips, methods, and everything you need to know about composting. From boosting soil fertility to reducing waste, compost truly is the black gold of Napa Valley vineyards—and it’s a shining example of how sustainable practices can support world-class grape growing. 🌱🍇
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.
ArchivesCategories |
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.
|