Between the Vines

This episode of "Between the Vines" podcast, hosted by Jennifer Phillips-Russo and Andrew Holden, featured Megan Luke discussing upcoming programs and current industry issues. The team marked the official start of bud break on April 18th, 2026, with Jennifer explaining that Cornell's research station calls bud break when 50% of buds reach 50% pink, while Penn State's phenology block recorded it two days earlier on April 16th. Megan announced the upcoming Coffee Pot meeting series starting the following Wednesday at Cornell AgriTech, focusing on pesticide equipment calibration and hands-on training modules developed through a NERMI grant. Megan explains how pH and turbidity can significantly affect pesticide performance, and Andrew provided updates on USDA supplemental disaster relief payments for 2023-2024 crop losses, noting that a second payment at 70% of allocated funding would be issued, with an extended deadline of August 12th for enrollment.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Dr. Jason Londo joins Jennifer in this episode to discuss the recent deep cold we have been having, the tools that we have available, and what to do if you suspect damage. Grab a cup of something warm and come listen! LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer and Andrew have a lot to talk about as this year begins. Andrew has some great information about the feedback from his recent survey as well as information regarding a new grant for processors. Then he and Jennifer are excited to tell you about our upcoming Winter Growers Conference that is staffed with some interesting speakers based on the suggestions given to us from our advisory board. Come and listen! We hope to see you at the conference! LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program podcast "Between the Vines" features a discussion about drought-like conditions and their impact on vine production, with Dr. Terry Bates and Dr. Alan Lakso sharing insights from their research. The conversation covered various aspects of vine management, including the effects of minimal pruning, irrigation practices, and root development patterns, with particular focus on how different approaches affect yield and water usage. The discussion concluded with historical research findings on cover cropping and row middle management, highlighting how various treatments impact grape root growth and competition. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer and Andrew give updates on the latest news in the region including harvest, rain, lack of rain, yield, grants, government shut down, FSA, spotted lanternfly trials, NEWA, and more! LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss the recent very dry conditions in the Lake Erie Region and what that means for the grapevines. Also, we knew it was coming... Jennifer talks about adult Spotted Lanternfly found in WNY. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Dr. Terry Bates guest hosts to answer grower and industry stakeholder concerns about vine health going into the winter and next year as drought conditions this time of year are very rare. What does nutrient uptake look like in these conditions and what should they be worried about. How do they best address it.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Come join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss what is happening in the Lake Erie Region now. Spoiler alert! It's veraison in Concord! LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer is joined by Andrew to discuss the quick turn around on the NYS Equipment Grant that closes July 25thLERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer and Terry discussed the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program meeting's focus on crop estimation and fruit thinning in Concord vineyards, including the importance of yield-to-pruning weight ratios and accurate sampling methods. They explored various techniques for estimating crop yields and emphasized the significance of achieving balanced vineyard conditions through proper thinning practices. The conversation ended with plans for an upcoming demonstration day on July 16th at the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory, where attendees will learn about crop estimation and fruit thinning techniques for sustainable grape production.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Fertilizer Calculators for Concord Vineyards (Beta)by Dr. Terry Bates.Dr. Terry Bates emphasizes that the new Nitrogen and Potassium Fertilizer Calculator for Concord Vineyards (Beta) represents a significant step forward in managing vineyard nutrition. By integrating scientific research with practical applications, Dr. Terry Bates and the team are equipping growers with the tools needed to optimize their vineyard practices.  For those interested in leveraging this calculator, visit the Efficient Vineyard website and navigate to the viticulture blog. We encourage you to explore this tool and reach out with any questions or feedback.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Dr. Terry Bates emphasizes that accurate crop estimation provides valuable information, allowing growers to decide whether thinning is necessary. Thinning is often debated among growers, but knowing the crop load can significantly influence management decisions.  To simplify the estimation process, a crop estimation calculator has been developed. This tool allows growers to input row spacing, vine spacing, days after bloom, how many vines or length of row sampled, weight of fruit in sample, and estimated vine size for the sample.  With the information that you input, it calculates the harvest yield prediction.  It also factors in pruning weight to calculate the revised index, helping growers understand whether their crop load is balanced or overcropped, and then gives a Thinning Consideration in tons/acre (See Figure 1 below). The calculator aids in making informed decisions about thinning and ultimately helps maintain vine health and productivity.Dr. Terry Bates emphasizes that accurate crop estimation provides valuable information, allowing growers to decide whether thinning is necessary. Thinning is often debated among growers, but knowing the crop load can significantly influence management decisions.  To simplify the estimation process, a crop estimation calculator has been developed. This tool allows growers to input row spacing, vine spacing, days after bloom, how many vines or length of row sampled, weight of fruit in sample, and estimated vine size for the sample.  With the information that you input, it calculates the harvest yield prediction.  It also factors in pruning weight to calculate the revised index, helping growers understand whether their crop load is balanced or overcropped, and then gives a Thinning Consideration in tons/acre (See Figure 1 below). The calculator aids in making informed decisions about thinning and ultimately helps maintain vine health and productivity.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss the recent weather events in relation to vineyard phenology as well as some discussion on the current market. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Between the Vines hosts Dr. Katie Gold from Cornell University to learn more about her work with fundamental and applied science of plant disease, work with NASA, and Mancozeb updates.   Dr. Kaitlin (Katie) Gold is an Assistant Professor of Grape Pathology in the Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science at Cornell University where she holds primary research and extension responsibilities for grape disease management in New York State.Dr. Gold’s Grape Sensing, Pathology, and Extension Lab at Cornell (GrapeSPEC) studies the fundamental and applied science of plant disease and plant-microbe interaction sensing to improve integrated grape disease management. The Gold Lab specializes in the use of in situ and imaging spectroscopy (also known as hyperspectral imaging) deployed at a range of spatial scales, from proximal, autonomous rovers to spacecraft, to characterize asymptomatic disease physiology and the impacts of management intervention on early grape disease detection. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Come listen to Jennifer and Andrew talk about important updates on grants as well as a big update in the vineyard! Bud Break! LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Join Jennifer and Andrew as they discuss grower interactions and Coffee Pot Meetings starting up again in May. They also chat about getting on a regular podcast schedule as well as making a request for advisory committee members that help direct educational programming efforts by tailoring them to grower needs. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer is joined by Andrew to discuss the 2024 season and look forward to 2025. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer and Terry discuss the effects of the frost event earlier this year and best vineyard management moving forward.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer welcomes Bob Betts of Betts Farm to talk about the Soil Health Day to be held at his farm on Wednesday, June 12th.She also discusses other upcoming programming including a Precision and Digital Viticulture Field Day on Thursday, June 6th with some exciting demonstrations of upcoming technology.We ask that you register for each of these events at https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/ LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer talks with Terry Bates about the recent frost/freeze event that occurred April 23rd and 24th of this year.  Terry shows how the differences can be seen using an NDVI scan of the vineyards at the lab.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Lake Erie Regional Grape Program presents Spotted Lanternfly Updates for the Grape and Wine Industry on May 1, 2024.  Discover SLF biology, life cycle, population dynamics, vineyard and non-vineyard research, management strategies, its influence on the grape/wine sector, quality effects, and 2023 population trends. This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Northeast Extension Risk Management Education and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer and Megan talk about upcoming winter and spring educational programming both virtually and in person for the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer is joined this week by Cain Hickey, Assistant Teaching Professor of viticulture at PSU.  In addition Cain and Jennifer are joined by three industry consultants with years of experience in the viticulture field.Jeanette Smith, VineSmith Vineyard Services in Virginina, Mark Chien has a viticulture consulting business in Pennsylvania, and Fritz Westover is located in Texas, Westover Vineyard Advising as well as Virtual Viticulture Academy.These five will be discussing the 2024 harvest from each of their perspectives.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer, Megan and German discuss the upcoming spray program meeting on December 5th where Megan and Bryan Hed will talk about putting together a program for next year in light of changing regulations and products.  There will be NY and PA Pesticide Applicator Recertification Credits available. To register go to https://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/event_preregistration_new.php?id=583.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer is joined by Megan Luke and German Vargas to give you an opportunity to meet the team! We are still working on the business management specialist, but are excited to be able to be that much closer to a full team. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer welcomes Dr. Terry Bates again to talk about impending harvest and sugar accumulation. They also talk more about soil nutrition and the relationship to pH. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer is joined by Dr. Terry Bates to talk about the upcoming harvest and how myEV can be used for helping to facilitate harvest planning and so much more.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer welcomes Terry back to talk about #6 of his Top 10 Nutrient Slides - Potted Grapevine Studies: Soil, pH, Phylloxera, Mycorrhizae. They also address that we are approaching veraison - keep an eye out for early ripening vines and think about thinning if it is needed.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 The growing season is flying by. We are three weeks out from Concord veraison and looking at the harvest doorstep three more weeks after that. It is a good time to finish up crop estimations, if you did not do them at 30 days post-bloom, and take some assessments of vine balance to decide when and where you will start harvesting. In this video, Dr. Terry Bates demonstrates how to use canopy NDVI at pre-bloom and pre-veraison with some directed field observations to generate spatial yield, vine size, and crop load maps in Concord vineyards. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer talks labor with Dr. Richard Stup from Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development about agriculture unionization and changes in the H2A program. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Terry and Jenn finish up the Nitrogen portion of the nutrient research and gear up for pH studies! Terry recaps the West Tier study, talks about Nitrogen Fertilizer Efficiency, and Nitrogen Management. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Dr. Terry Bates and Jennifer discuss the multiple decade multiple factorial study that helped form our knowledge on vineyard nutrition and basis of our recommendations.  The original West Tier publication back in 1969:Shaulis N, Steele RD. 1969. The interaction of resistant rootstock to the nitrogen, weed control, pruning, and thinning on the productivity of Concord grapevines. J Am Soc Hortic Sci 91:122–129. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Terry Bates are back again to discuss #3 of his top ten nutrient studies - the Concord Vine Excavation Study of own rooted vines vs 3309.  LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Terry Bates spend time discussing the Big Dig nutrient study on mature Concord grapevines.  This work is part of the basis of our nutrient recommendations.  Join us on this nutrient journey!LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer Phillips Russo of Cornell Extension and Bryan Hed from Penn State University touch base about the possibility of cold damage to tender grape bud tissues and dive deep into a discussion about early season diseases, management, and timing. Join us to hear about resources available for operations and more. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Terry Bates discuss Terry’s Top Ten Research Studies in nutrition that have helped formulate today’s nutrient recommendations for vineyard management.  Learn about Terry’s #1  process on the list, the how and why of this particular study was started, the findings, and what role it plays in today’s recommendations.   This is the first of a ten podcast series. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

 Cornell University’s Jennifer Phillips Russo and Dr. Jason Londo discuss the grapevine bud progression, the unseasonably warm weather, and the threat of snow on swollen buds.  What are their chances? LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Kevin, Jennifer and Megan talk about the upcoming Growers Conference.  Introducing Megan Luke as our new team member from PSU, and saying goodbye to Kevin.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jenn and Kevin give the rundown on the conference at SUNY Fredonia on March 16th. Also, we discuss current macroeconomic events and deacclimation. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

With low temperatures hitting parts of the US we check in with Cornell’s expert in Cold Hardiness, Dr. Jason Londo. The headlines say -15 below so we talk wind chill vs temperature and how cold is too cold right now. Of course, that depends heavily on your location. Check out his model for more information about your specific location: https://grapecoldhardiness.shinyapps.io/grape_freezing_tolerance/?_ga=2.44302822.378514422.1664933625-1102627896.1660254134LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

We have a conference coming up, among a host of other winter educational opportunities to improve vineyard management and farm business. In the meantime, LERGP takes a second to check out what is going on in the fertilizer market.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

LERGP discusses happenings this winter. Bud cutting, temperature data, sensors, fertilizer and labor prices. Stay tuned for virtual and in person meeting opportunities.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

With harvest behind us Kevin and Jenn discuss strategies for 2023. Economic conditions are key to planning for 2023. Volatility should be expected in the prices of many things for 2023. Short-term practices should anticipate elevated grape prices. Longer term LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Harvest is continuing to progress with varying results. Variable crop load last year is directly translating to different challenges this year. Some growers are wrapping up progress this week. A few are just getting started. In general, more than half of tonnage is contained. This week, Jenn and Kevin discuss efficiently harvesting in these conditions and more.LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Jenn and Kevin discuss reports of variable harvest conditions. Brix and yield are creating some logistical challenges but nothing growers and processors cannot handle.  NEWA stations also indicated some variability in rainfall. Rainfall in the Lake Erie Region ranged from too much to way too much. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Just getting started with Concord harvest. Best of luck to growers avoiding dodgy weather and staying safe. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. There is some price data from the Finger Lakes Survey, but more would be better. Prices are following Lake Erie trends but we discuss some important differences. Berry curve measurements continue as harvest approaches. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Spotted Lanternfly was found in Buffalo, NY. LERGP discusses the impact of an established population in the Lake Erie Region.  Throughout harvest season in the Lake Erie Region growers will need to scout and start to play for the next couple of years. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. Grape Berry Moths should be heading into diapause currently, but this warm summer trend indicates that we might be on course for an extra generation this year.  Keep an eye on the NEWA model so you can stay on top of it. The demonstration meeting originally scheduled for early this month has been rescheduled for August 31st.  Veraison is right around the corner!LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php

Kevin and Jennifer to discuss vineyard news this week. It’s time to spray for berry moth. The GBM model got a new look last year. Jenn discusses differences in the look, the model remains the same. LERGP.comhttps://lergp.cce.cornell.edu/contact_information.php