Jennifer and Andrew discuss recent developments in the grape growing region, focusing on harvest updates, weather impacts, and new programs. Jennifer shared that harvest of some cultivars already being picked, and noted concerns about berry splitting in Concords due to heavy rain, which could lead to yield loss and disease issues. She welcomed Jessica Clippinger to the team and highlighted her recent article on managing late-season diseases. Andrew announced a new grant program from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for fruit growers affected by spring frost damage. They also discussed the Concord Berry Curve and the effects of recent rainfall on berry maturity. The conversation included reminders about the Northeast Wine Grape Classifieds for buying and selling grapes and equipment, and the importance of inspecting vehicles for spotted lanternfly to prevent its spread. Jennifer and Andrew emphasized the need for safety during harvest season, especially on roads, and mentioned ongoing research related to spotted lanternfly management.

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Jennifer, Andrew and Megan come together to talk about the upcoming sprayer technology demo day organized by the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program team. This day will feature presentations from experts in sprayer technology, including drone applications and autonomous spray units, as well as demonstrations of various equipment. Megan shared insights from her work on sprayer calibrations and water quality, emphasizing the importance of regular testing and maintenance for effective pesticide application. The team highlighted the educational value of the event, which will include classroom sessions, field demonstrations, and opportunities for growers to earn pesticide credits as well as lunch! They also mentioned other recent activities, such as grower meetings and upcoming travel plans, and encouraged listeners to register for the demo day.

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This podcast episode featured Dr. Terry Bates presenting on high-resolution vineyard nutrition research that was originally planned for the American Society of Enology and Viticulture National Conference in Boise. Dr. Bates discussed the importance of understanding nutrient supply, uptake, and demand in vineyards, emphasizing the use of spatial data collection through sensors and tissue sampling to create variable rate fertilizer application maps. He explained the differences between collecting samples at bloom versus veraison, noting that veraison petiole samples showed better correlation with nutrient uptake patterns, though both approaches have value depending on management goals. The presentation covered their three-year variable rate fertilizer trial showing early signs of success in canopy reflectance differences between uniform and variable rate application zones. Dr. Bates also highlighted future research directions including vineyard automation and autonomous equipment development to reduce labor costs in grape production.

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Jennifer and Andrew wanted to give a couple of quick updates before the regularly planned podcast - PA relief for Refresco growers. It's crop estimation time and there is an EASY button! Jenn shows how to use it. https://lergp.com/crop-estimation-table
Andrew talks about some tariff relief for NY growers and how to access that. Finally a reminder about road safety - see and be seen! Be safe out there!

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Jennifer and Andrew have some important information to share with the coming heat wave expected in the Lake Erie Region. Sharing tips to help avoid heat cramps, exhaustion and stroke with help from some Cornell resources. They also talk about a recent storm that hit eastern Erie county PA. An SLF update... and finally, getting ready to start crop estimation!

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This episode of "Between the Vines" podcast, hosted by Jennifer Phillips-Russo and Andrew Holden, featured Megan Luke discussing upcoming programs and current industry issues. The team marked the official start of bud break on April 18th, 2026, with Jennifer explaining that Cornell's research station calls bud break when 50% of buds reach 50% pink, while Penn State's phenology block recorded it two days earlier on April 16th. Megan announced the upcoming Coffee Pot meeting series starting the following Wednesday at Cornell AgriTech, focusing on pesticide equipment calibration and hands-on training modules developed through a NERMI grant. Megan explains how pH and turbidity can significantly affect pesticide performance, and Andrew provided updates on USDA supplemental disaster relief payments for 2023-2024 crop losses, noting that a second payment at 70% of allocated funding would be issued, with an extended deadline of August 12th for enrollment.

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Dr. Jason Londo joins Jennifer in this episode to discuss the recent deep cold we have been having, the tools that we have available, and what to do if you suspect damage. Grab a cup of something warm and come listen!

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Jennifer and Andrew have a lot to talk about as this year begins. Andrew has some great information about the feedback from his recent survey as well as information regarding a new grant for processors. Then he and Jennifer are excited to tell you about our upcoming Winter Growers Conference that is staffed with some interesting speakers based on the suggestions given to us from our advisory board. Come and listen! We hope to see you at the conference!

LERGP.com
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