Hauptfleisch Grondverskuiwing (Soil Preparation in Afrikaans) yet again hosted a phenomenal information day on soil preparation. The afternoon kicked off with a demonstration with different types of plows, followed by a brief discussion with soil scientists from VinPro, Braham Oberholzer and Heinrich Schloms, on the effect of each action. The soil conditions wasn’t ideal – too wet – but this was also an excellent example of what damage you can do when you prepare your soil in a too wet condition.
Johan Viljoen (Lelienfontien Vine Growers) gave a good presentation on planting young vines, dealing with cold stored vines and and general mistakes to avoid during planting. Braham Oberholzer gave a presentation on soil preparation, soil mapping and the importance of chemical analysis before soil preparation. The day ended with an inspirational speech from Hein Koegelenberg, CEO of the renowned La Motte wine estate.
I realized again – it’s great to be a Viticulturist!
Dr Hauptfleisch explaining how the ripper works
Heinrich Schloms explains the effect on different soil types
