Philosophical Considerations in Converting to Organic Vineyard Production

¹ Fetzer Vineyards, P.O. Box 227, Redwood Valley, CA 95470.

Vineyard managers who undertake the transition from conventional to organic growing methods should expect to revise their approach to management of many phases of the vineyard operation. The process of relearning vineyard management requires a commitment to the concept of farming without synthetic materials. Above all, implementation of an organic management philosophy requires a systems approach that integrates the vineyard into the surrounding ecosystem. A vineyard manager's well-honed skills of observation provide an excellent base for understanding the complex interactions found in nature, This understanding becomes the foundation for development of the organic management system.

Key words: organic vineyard production

Submitted on January 8, 1992