Napa Valley Register

ROOTSTOCK 2024 addresses Leafroll Virus and Red Blotch Disease

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Panelists discuss threats to vineyard health during ROOTSTOCK 2024, hosted by Napa Valley Grapegrowers in November<br />
Panelists discuss threats to vineyard health during ROOTSTOCK 2024, hosted by Napa Valley Grapegrowers in November
The Napa Valley Grapegrowers recently hosted ROOTSTOCK 2024 to discuss two viral threats to vineyard health: Leafroll Virus and Red Blotch Disease. Difficulties mitigating the spread of both Leafroll Virus and Red Blotch Disease are causing increased concern for growers due to the reductions of fruit quality and negative impact on vineyard profitability, according to a news release. With no cure available, the importance of early detection, innovative management practices, and cutting-edge research has never been higher. ROOTSTOCK, held at Napa Valley College on Nov. 19, featured expert-led sessions and panel discussions that dove into the latest research and mitigation strategies to address these viruses.

“Preventing the spread of red leaf viruses requires a community effort. We must all work together,” said NVG Director Justin Leigon of Piña Vineyard Management. “Local neighborhood groups have been building strong social networks to foster collaboration and share experiences, and the academic community has made significant progress in understanding how red blotch spreads and has identified effective mitigation methods, such as targeted vine removal.”

ROOTSTOCK was designed for and attended by a wide range of industry professionals committed to advancing Napa Valley’s viticultural excellence, including grape growers and vineyard owners, vineyard managers, winemakers, viticulturists pest control advisors and consultants, nurseries and plant material providers, and industry advocates.

“Napa Valley Grapegrowers’ events like ROOTSTOCK give growers access to the latest research, best farming practices, and technological advancements,” Leigon added. “These events also provide a space for the grower community to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge.”

“The fact that an event like this specifically regarding Red Blotch was held shows how important this issue is,” added ROOTSTOCK speaker and viticulturist Jake Maus of Colinas Farming Company. “I am hopeful that we can continue to raise awareness, and I think attendees were able to walk away with a better understanding of the science regarding the disease and the different angles growers are taking when addressing the problem.”

ROOTSTOCK has been a cornerstone of Napa Valley’s winegrowing community for over 17 years. Initially known as the ‘Vit Fair’ tradeshow, later the ‘Wine & Grape Expo’, ROOTSTOCK has continuously evolved to meet the needs of Napa’s growers and industry leaders.

To learn more, visit napagrowers.org/nvgrootstock.

Source: https://napavalleyregister.com/life-entertainment/local/food-drink/napa-valley-grapegrowers-education/article_f5b8ea74-b8ed-11ef-be64-f34684c232f8.html