Veenow Vineyard has become the first in the UK to adopt UV Boosting technology, which uses UV-C light to strengthen grapevines against fungal diseases like powdery and downy mildew and reduce frost damage.
Trials indicate the system can lower frost risk by up to 50% when applied within 48 hours of a frost event and cut the need for chemical sprays by up to 60%, requiring only three to four applications per season. The technology is also expected to reduce disease incidence by 40% and increase vine yield by 13%.
Veenow plans to use the system on key grape varieties, including Pinot Noir, Bacchus, Chardonnay, Meunier, and Cabernet Noir. The vineyard’s owners say the investment aligns with their commitment to sustainability, alongside other practices like digestate application and cover cropping.
