Hello Dear Growers!
Next week is fast approaching and so are our field days!
If you are near Malagash on Tuesday, come and see us at Jost Vineyards. We will be talking vineyard practices- everything from soil health and cover cropping to disease management and shoot thinning! It is almost that time of year already. The field practice session will be followed by a cellar tour.
Please see the flyer below, and register using this link:
https://www.perennia.ca/eventer/vineyard-readiness-soil-cover-crops-seasonal-strategy/edate/2026-06-16/
On June 18, we will return to the Annapolis Valley and gather at 925 Bains Road in Sheffield Mills.
As many of you know, Stephane Badet will be joining us to lead a discussion on industry resilience, diversification, co-operative models, and how we can leverage Nova Scotia's unique terroir to support the long-term success of our grape and wine industry.
Speaking of terroir, we know that everything begins in the vineyard. Following the discussion, Steve Ells will host a vineyard tour and share insights into the vineyard practices that help maximize fruit quality and express site characteristics. From canopy management to crop balance and pest management, Steve will demonstrate how decisions made in the vineyard ultimately influence the quality and character of the wines produced.
Bring yourselves, colleagues and let's have an eventful day.
Please register for the event here: https://www.perennia.ca/eventer/rooted-in-terroir-identity-collaboration-growth-in-nova-scotia-wine-sector/edate/2026-06-18/
Lastly, looking at the weather forecast for the next few days, please make sure you keep your spray schedules tight, keep scouting and ensure that you are proactively protecting your vineyards.
Rachel Rix from AAFC has asked to keep an eye out if anyone has issues with flea beetles. If you do, please email me. As you can see by the photo below, flea beetles are small, jumping beetles that are typically black or dark blue. They are much smaller than Japanese beetles and are known for their ability to jump when disturbed. Grape flea beetles do attack grape leaves, though the most significant damage is usually caused by adults feeding on buds in early spring while larvae can also chew on leaves and clusters, creating a characteristic "shot-hole" appearance.
So please do be on the lookout and report it to us. Thank you.
Katarina Vucic
P.Ag; MSc; DipWSET
Viticulture
Specialist
Perennia Food and Agriculture
Email kvucic@perennia.ca
Office 902-678-7722
Cell 902-599-1390
