COYOTEHILLFARM wrote: >Is this a study that one can read some where ?? >Why mulch/straw ratter than wood chips ?? > >Companion planting with grapes any info?? > I have a poor photocopy of it somewhere and I'm looking for it.
Grass-type mulches hold more moisture and retain it longer than wood chips. Chips may also leach nutrients or compounds harmful to vines (eg from radiata (monterey) pine, some australian native hardwoods). Grasses break down and incorporate easily and more naturally into soils. Some cover crops: annuals - lupins, vetch, barley; perennial - lucerne, clover, rye. I suggest also you have a look at http://www.organic-europe.net/resources/downloads/hofmann2000.pdf (COVER CROP MANAGEMENT IN ORGANIC VITICULTURE) Sorry I don't know much about grape growing yet roger
