Trellis Talks: The Science and Challenges of Grapevine Nurseries

In this episode of Trellis Talks, Caleb Mosley sits down with Dr. James Stamp, founder of Stamp Associates Viticulture and a leading expert on grapevine nursery quality. They discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities in grapevine plant material, including the impacts of nursery consolidation, vineyard fallowing, and the persistent threat of red blotch disease. Dr. Stamp emphasizes the critical importance of starting with clean, high-quality plant material and the need for improved nursery practices, including the potential for greenhouse-grown propagation and new technologies to enhance plant health and vineyard success.
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The conversation also touches on the decline of two major nurseries, Duarte and Wonderful, and what that means for future vine availability. Dr. Stamp shares insights on alternatives like green grafting, Uber vines, and the importance of collaboration among growers to address vineyard replanting and virus management. Despite current challenges, both Stamp and Mosley express optimism that this transitional period presents an opportunity to elevate the standards and innovation within the grapevine nursery sector, ultimately strengthening the foundation of Napa Valley vineyards.