Growing Grapes for Wine Workshop

If you are considering planting a vineyard or have just recently done so, you will benefit from the information provided at a one-day Growing Grapes for Wine Workshop on October 19 at the SMECO Auditorium in Hughesville, MD. The seminar, part one of a two-part series, runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and provides a good overview of what is involved with getting a commercial vineyard started in Maryland. The second workshop, to be offered in the spring of 2007, will discuss the ins and outs of starting a winery.

“There has been tremendous interest in the wine grape production throughout the Southern Maryland region. In fact, many growers have or are considering establishing vineyards,” says Ben Beale of the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension, which is responsible for coordinating the workshop. “However, successfully establishing a grape vineyard requires keen management and attention to details. New growers should attend to learn the specifics of vineyard establishment, variety selection and economics.”

Offered in a classroom format, the workshop will present a broad overview of commercial vineyard development from pre-plant planning into the third year, including economics and marketing information; variety, clone and rootstock choices; site selection and preparation; pre-plant decisions; and equipment and supply requirements. The basics of ordering, planting and tending the vines through the third year of growth, as well as best practices for training, canopy management and pest management also will be covered.  There will be an opportunity for a vineyard demonstration at the end.

The cost of the workshop is typically $135 but has been reduced to $20 for Maryland residents, thanks to subsidies from the Maryland Wine Association/Maryland Grape Growers Association via the Governor’s Commission on Grapes and Wine. To take advantage of this reduced rate, registration must be received by October 16. Registration after this date or at the door will be $160, if space allows.

“Last spring, we started a new grant program for farmers in Southern Maryland to encourage the budding wine industry. We had applicants from four of the five Southern Maryland counties, and as a result, expect to see an additional 20 new acres added to Maryland’s grape industry,” says Christine Bergmark, executive director of the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission. “This workshop is the second phase of the program and is critical to its success. We are delighted that the Maryland Grape Growers Association is helping to sponsor the event.”

To register or for more information, contact Ben Beale (301-475-4484; bbeale@umd.edu) or Joe Fiol (301-432-2767 ext. 344; jfiola@umd.edu).  Registration forms and directions can also be found at the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission website: www.somarylandsogood.com.