11/10/2025
11:00 - 12:00
Virtual Channel 3
, Online only
Session with interpretation
Why attend
Hear how native flowering plants in vineyards can reduce weeds and pests, boost biodiversity, and build climate resilience. A science-based and practice-infused conversation brings evidence and field experience together, modelling the bridge between research and conservation practice.
Session Description
Beneath the vines, a quiet revolution is taking place. Vineyards are battling weeds, pests, erosion, and climate stress – but instead of relying on ryegrass or chemicals, researchers are turning to native wildflowers. In this “Voices for Nature” podcast, Professor Liette Vasseur shares insights from a Niagara field trial testing locally native species as cover crops. The results are eye-catching: Brown-eyed Susan and Coreopsis blooming in their first year, robust establishment across three vineyards, and markedly fewer weeds in native plots. Together, science and practice come into conversation – exploring how sowing windows, site choices, and simple management tweaks can translate research into resilient operations. Beyond the vineyard, the discussion opens up the wider benefits, such as promoting ecosystem services: soil protection, biological control, and biodiversity gains. A story of collaboration, innovation, and how working with nature can secure the future of perennial systems.Partners
Headquarters
Moderator
Rooted in resilience: Native cover crops transforming vineyards
Speaker
Rooted in resilience: Native cover crops transforming vineyards