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Promoting biodiversity has become a central aspect of many winemakers' work. A species-rich ecosystem in the vineyard not only provides habitat for numerous plant and animal species, but also contributes to soil health and natural pest control. In this blog post, we highlight some of the key measures winemakers are taking to promote biodiversity in their vineyards.
Greening between the rows of vines
Habitat and soil health
Many winegrowers sow species-rich plant mixtures in the vineyard rows. This vegetation provides habitat for insects and other small animals while promoting soil health. The plants improve soil structure, increase water retention, and promote nutrient availability [1][2]. Vegetation can also reduce erosion and protect the soil from extreme weather conditions.
Creation of flower strips and herb islands
Food for pollinators
Flowering wild plants are planted along the edge of vineyards or between the vines to provide food and habitat for pollinators and other beneficial insects. These flower strips and herb islands contribute significantly to the maintenance of pollinator populations and support natural pest control [2][4].
Creation of structural elements
Shelter for small animals
Winegrowers create stone and wood piles that provide shelter for reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. These structural elements create important microhabitats and increase biodiversity in the vineyard [2][4]. They provide protection from predators and extreme weather conditions.
Preservation and maintenance of dry stone walls
Habitat for specialized species
Old stone walls in vineyards are important habitats for specialized plant and animal species. The preservation and maintenance of these dry stone walls contributes to the conservation of these species and promotes biodiversity [1]. Dry stone walls also provide stability for steep vineyards and protect against erosion.
Integration of trees and hedges
Increasing structural diversity
Individual trees or hedgerows in the vineyard increase structural diversity and provide nesting sites for birds. These measures contribute to the creation of a diverse and stable ecosystem [2][4]. Trees and hedges can also serve as windbreaks and positively influence the microclimate in the vineyard.
Creation of wetlands
Diversity of habitats
Small ponds or wetlands in the vineyard attract a variety of species and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. Wetlands provide habitats for amphibians, insects, and waterfowl [4]. They can also contribute to regulating the water balance in the vineyard.
Extensive management of marginal areas
Ecological compensation areas
Less intensively used areas at the edge of the vineyards serve as ecological compensation areas. These extensively managed areas promote biodiversity and provide refuge for various animal species [2][4].
Reduction of pesticides
Biological plant protection
Many winegrowers rely on biological or integrated pest management to protect beneficial insects. By avoiding synthetic pesticides, natural enemies of pests are promoted and ecological balance in the vineyard is supported [2].
Promoting pollinators
Nesting aids for wild pollinators
The installation of nesting aids such as bee hotels supports wild pollinators. These measures contribute to the maintenance of pollinator populations and promote the pollination of grapevines [2]. Bee hotels provide nesting sites for various wild bee species that are often scarce in natural habitats.
Preservation of old grape varieties
Contribution to genetic diversity
The cultivation of traditional, regional grape varieties contributes to genetic diversity. These old grape varieties are often better adapted to local climatic conditions and contribute to the preservation of cultural wine diversity [4].
Conclusion
These measures help develop vineyards into diverse habitats. A species-rich ecosystem in the vineyard not only promotes biodiversity, but also supports natural pest control and can have a positive impact on wine quality. Many winegrowers today see themselves not only as wine producers, but also as landscape managers who actively contribute to the preservation of biodiversity [2]. The integration of biodiversity-promoting measures into viticulture is an important step toward sustainable and organic wine production.
Sources:
[1] https://www.lwg.bayern.de/weinbau/213039/index.php
[2] https://www.badischerwein.de/themen/von-und-mit-der-natur-biodiversitaet-im-weinberg/
[3] https://www.globalnature.org/de/biodiversitaet-weinbau
[4] https://www.delinat.com/delinat-methode/biodiversitaet.html
[5] https://www.ecovin.de/2022/05/10/artenvielfalt-im-weinberg-kooperativ-entwickeln/