Nearly 70 producers, researchers, and wine grape industry partners gathered in the Okanagan this June for two hands-on field days focused on cover cropping, invasive species management, and emerging vineyard research. The events showcased work taking place in Okanagan vineyards, including two sites participating in the BC Living Lab, and created valuable opportunities for growers and researchers to share experiences, insights, and practical solutions.
The field days were organized by the BC Wine Grape Council and UBC Okanagan, with contributions from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the BC Living Lab, the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food, the BC Grapegrowers’ Association, Sustainable Winegrowing BC, and the Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society (OASISS).
Day 1: Exploring Soil Health and Cover Cropping in South Kelowna
The first day began at Ailm Estate Wines and Vineyard in South Kelowna, where viticulturist Rowan Stewart shared the vineyard’s efforts to rebuild soil health. Because the site had previously operated as a nursery, restoring topsoil quality has been a key focus, and cover crops are playing an important role in that process.
Jesse McDonald of AAFC and Galen Barnhardt of the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC introduced attendees to the BC Living Lab and highlighted several beneficial management practices currently being tested, including cover cropping. They emphasized that collaboration between producers and researchers is critical for developing practical solutions that can be widely adopted across the industry.
AAFC researchers expanded on the many benefits cover crops can bring to vineyards, from improving soil structure and aggregate stability to supporting nutrient cycling. Attendees also had the opportunity to see a new do-it-yourself field soil pH testing kit in action. Researchers stressed the importance of regularly monitoring soil pH and understanding how management practices can influence it over time.
The morning concluded with a presentation from OASISS, which focused on common invasive plant species found in the region and the biological control options available for managing them. One key message stood out: minimizing soil disturbance is one of the most effective ways to prevent invasive species from establishing.
The group then moved to Waldhof Vineyard, where attendees toured a series of cover crop strip trials. Various alleyway cover crop blends were on display, including combinations of triticale, clovers, and Italian ryegrass, along with under-vine cover crop demonstrations.
Researchers discussed the performance of the different mixes and reinforced an important lesson: there is no one-size-fits-all cover crop. Selecting the right species depends on the goals and conditions of each vineyard. Hairy vetch, for example, can provide valuable nitrogen, but in vineyards it can also grow into the grapevine fruiting zone, creating management challenges.
Representatives from the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food shared practical resources available to growers, including cover cropping guides and information products found through BC AgriService bulletins.
The day wrapped up with presentations from student researchers investigating several vineyard health topics. Their work explored the diversity of vegetation in vineyard alleyways compared to nearby natural habitats, as well as the role of nematodes in vineyard ecosystems. Researchers explained how different cover crop species can either encourage or suppress nematode populations, highlighting another factor growers may want to consider when selecting cover crop mixes.
Day 2: Regional Perspectives from the South Okanagan
The second field day took place in Osoyoos at La Stella Winery and Osoyoos Larose vineyards, offering participants a chance to explore how vineyard management challenges can differ across the Okanagan.
Jody Subotin, viticulturist with La Stella Winery, opened the day by discussing the role cover crops can play in reducing pest pressure and supporting overall vineyard resilience.
While many of the presentations echoed topics covered on Day 1, speakers highlighted important regional differences between the Central and South Okanagan. OASISS, for example, discussed the growing challenge of puncturevine in South Okanagan vineyards. Although the plant’s sharp, spiny seedpods make it particularly difficult to manage, attendees learned about emerging technologies designed to help remove and control the weed more effectively.
OASISS also encouraged growers to take a strategic approach to invasive species management. Developing maps, monitoring infestations, and creating management plans can help ensure control efforts align with the specific goals and conditions of each vineyard.
Building Knowledge Through Collaboration
Across both days, a common theme emerged: healthy vineyard ecosystems depend on informed management and strong collaboration. By bringing together growers, researchers, industry organizations, and students, the field days provided an opportunity to share knowledge, explore practical solutions, and advance research that supports the long-term sustainability of BC’s wine grape industry.