Malibu Solstice Vineyard Sustainable & Environmentally Friendly Farming Practices
Erosion Control
Root System · Vitis Vinifera (common grape vine) roots can be categorized as lateral & vertical tap. · Tap roots can reach depths of 7 meters, while lateral roots can spread up to 10 meters according to UC Davis Studies. · Dry farming and limited irrigation practices encourage roots to grow deeper to search for ground water. Vines with deeper roots are more healthy and more difficult for phylloxera to attack, preventing pesticide use.
Cover Cropping · Greatly reduces top soil erosion during heavy precipitation and reduces airborne dust in windy environments. · Used as insectary plants to bring in beneficial insects and spiders that feed on the pests, thus reducing dependency on chemical pesticides. · Suppress weed growth between vine rows, In turn reducing use of chemical herbicides. ·Increase soil fertility through nitrogen fixation and mineral depositing. Reduce need for additional fertilizers.
Limited Water Dependency
Dry Farming Techniques · 85% of California’s soil is moisture rich enough to support grapevines without additional irrigation. · Cover cropping can slow soil surface evaporation and lessen irrigation requirements. · Should irrigation be required, minimal use of ultra efficient drip systems prevent water loss to evaporation and run-off. · Irrigation systems sourced from natural wells are nearly closed loop systems.
Additional Practices
Sustainable & Environmental · Most vineyards require little to no fossil fuels or electricity when hand maintained. · The Santa Monica Mountains are rich in natural predators eager to control rodent and insect infestations, limiting the need for pesticide and poison use. · Retained vineyard clippings and grape pomace saved from the wine making Process can be used as natural fertilizers. ·Recycled bottles, cartons, labels, and shipping materials are readily available throughout the United States.