New Vines for the Vineyard

How is it?

After pruning the vines last month and taking a few cuttings to grow on, we have another tub full of Chambourcin vines starting to burst into life. Have sold a few of these at the Northern Tree Croppers days.

Must always remember to keep the root end down when trying to start them off in life.

I think the cat likes rubbing up against the cuttings as she walks past, as some are facing a different way. Still they need to learn how to tuffen up if they are to become vines in Northland.

September 2011 in the Vineyard

How is it?

The weather is on the make. Sprayed with copper two weeks ago at bud swell. Went for an early morning stroll with Jaz and Midnight, the buds on most Merlot vines have burst open and the green of fresh new leaves is showing.

I'm typing this sitting at the kitchen table and looking out over the vines to the sea. The tide is in and there is a slight breeze showing on the waters surface.

The grass growth is starting to shoot ahead. Mowed the lawns out front last Sunday and they need a recut now.

Saw five pheasant in the vineyard last night at sunset. Looking forward to many more soon.

Talking of birds, I heard my first Shining Cuckoo yesterday, Pipiwharauroa, long way to fly from the Solomons.

Bananas 2011

How is it?

Wet day but the Bananas are ready.

Frost has split the skins but still taste like Bananas

Spraying on Copper

How is it?

Well spring is finally here, decided that today would be a good day to spray with Copper.

Tried out the new back pack, all's good. Jaz was running around a bit, so I had to shorten up on his lead.

The buds have gone past swelling on many of the vines and are at first leaf on many. The Merlot seem to be ahead of the rest.

Nice spring day with little or no wind to speak of. The tide is coming in and the surface is glassy.