Currently, most of the vines grown in the province have reached or are approaching complete veraison. At this phenological stage, the berries turn from green to yellow, pink, or red depending on the variety, start the development of flavors and aromas, and accumulate sugar for the winemaking process.
One of the biggest considerations at this time
of the year is the protection of the fruit zone from birds, raccoons and deer. One
of the most common ways to protect the bunches is the use of nets, which cover
the fruit zone from the top of the bunches to below the first wire. In some
cases, nets can be used to completely cover 2 full rows at a time. Regardless
of the strategy selected, it is important to ensure proper coverage of the
area, fastening the edges with staples/clips/pegs, to prevent birds or racoons from
entering.
Figure 1. Vineyard during the process of netting the fruit zone.
Figure 2. Grapevines
with netting completely protecting the fruit zone.
Another
strategy to help prevent raccoons from visiting the grapevines is the use of
electric fencing. For the most positive results, it’s important to protect the
entire perimeter of the property. Moreover, to ensure the correct voltage to
the whole fence, the area where the wires are located must be connected properly.
Making some measurements prior to setting up the fence would be recommended. Keeping
the area clean of weeds will prevent short circuiting and allow the proper functioning
of the electric fence.