VMW 263 Organic and Biodynamic Viticulture

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Covers the principles, practices and certification processes of organic and biodynamic viticulture systems. Investigates theory and applied integrated approaches for vineyards managed under the above systems. Develops planning and decision-making skills involved in implementation of organic and biodyanic viticulture. Reviews certification and conversion processes.

Prerequisite: VMW 101 with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe current vineyard sustainability systems
Compare the history, theory and key principles of both organic and biodynamic vineyard systems.
Assess organic nutrition and spray programs
Describe the preparation and uses of biodyamnic treatments.
Identify the timing of vineyard activities according to the biodynamic calendar.
Develop farm management plans for vineyard and non-vineyard land
Explain regulations as they pertain to various certification systems.

Content Outline

Sustainable Viticulture Systems Theory and Principles
- LIVE Sustainable Practices
  - History
  - Guiding Principles
  - Current State of Organic Viticulture Worldwide
- Principles of Organic Viticulture
  - History
  - Guiding Principles
  - Current State of Organic Viticulture Worldwide
- Principles of Biodynamics
  - History
  - Guiding Principles and Philosophy
  - The Biodynamic Calendar
  - The “farm unit” approach
  - Overview of Preparations
Pest and Disease Control
- Organic control of grapevine diseases
- Organic control of grapevine pests (insects)
  - Sprays
  - Beneficials
- Organic Control of vertebrates
  - Deer
  - Rodents
  - Birds
- Organic control of weeds
  - Cultivation
  - Sprays
  - Promoting biodiversity as a means of pest and disease control
Nutrient Management
- Organic soil amendments
- Organic Foliar sprays
- Cover cropping
- The Farm unit nutrient cycle
Biodynamic Preparations
- Theory, uses and timing
- Treatments
  - 500
  - 501
  - 502-508
- Preparations
  - Teas
  - Dynamizations
  - Emulsions
- Biodynamic compost preparation and use
Farm Management and Integrated Systems
- Promoting biodiversity
- Management of non-vineyard land on farms
- Integration of livestock into vineyard management systems
- Intercropping systems
Certification Systems and Regulations
- USDA Certified organic
- Demeter Biodynamic-certified
- LIVE Certification