North Dakota State University releases two new grape cultivars!
The North Dakota State University Grape Germplasm Enhancement Project, a VG3 participating program, has released two new grape cultivars: 'Dakota Primus' and 'Radiant'. These vines have low susceptibility to powdery mildew, downy mildew, black rot, foliar phylloxera, and no observed grey mold. Both have high yield and winter survival, and produce fruit appropriate for wine production. These vines will go into nursery production soon and will be available for sale within the next few years!
VitisGen3 Variety Trial Enhances Biopesticide Management
Conventional pesticides are starting to lose efficacy as pathogens develop resistance. However, biopesticides may be a promising alternative to tamp down disease and protect the genetic resistance of new grapevine cultivars bred to rely on fewer agrochemicals. Wine Business Monthly recently covered the VitisGen3 variety trial aiming to generate production recommendations for farmers growing disease resistant vineyards.
PhytoPatholoBots deployed at two VitisGen3 sites
Researchers from the VitisGen3 robotics and AI team have deployed the PhytoPatholoBot (PPB) at two participating sites in California and South Dakota. PPB drives through the vineyard taking high resolution images to allow for pinpoint detection of powdery mildew.