Raccoons and Birds and Deer… Oh My!

Tuesday, September 8, 2020

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.