Form of cultivation in the vineyard by sowing plants; see under cover crop.
Term for the deliberate sowing and/or allowing of suitable plants in the vineyard between the rows of v ines. This measure is almost obligatory within the framework of organic viticulture in organic or integrated plant protection. A cover crop protects against erosion, favours the formation of humus, enriches the microbiological soil composition with organic nutrients, creates positive water competition with the vines and thus reduces yields, ensures better water storage and drainage and thus optimal water balance, reduces nitrate leaching, causes lower susceptibility to diseases such as chlorosis, fungal diseases, stem par alysis and coulure, reduces the amount of mineral fertiliser required and creates food supply for beneficial insects and birds.
Last but not least, it is more convenient to walk through the vineyards regardless of the weather conditions, especially during the grape harvest, and it is easier to drive through the vineyards when they are tended by machines. However, these advantages can only be achieved through the targeted use of the most suitable plants. Possible disadvantages are excessive water consumption and higher...
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