OSU scheduled to host 2023 Grape Management course

STILLWATER, Okla. – When traveling across Oklahoma’s landscape, it’s easy to find wheat, cotton or corn fields, but if you look closely, you’ll spot agricultural land dedicated to growing grapes.

Due to more Oklahomans venturing into the grape-growing arena, Oklahoma State University’s Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture will host the 2023 Grape Management course. Starting March 2 and meeting one Thursday per month through September, the course is geared toward both seasoned and novice growers. Classes will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Cimarron Valley Research Station, 10820 S. Jardot, Perkins, Oklahoma. Registration is $250 and due by Feb. 17. The course is limited to 50 registrants.

“Traditional agriculture typically takes many acres of land, but viticulture can be successful on a few acres of land,” said Aaron Essary, OSU Extension assistant specialist with grapes and wine. “This course will familiarize participants with grape management requirements throughout the growing season.”

Each of the monthly classes will coincide with what is occurring in grape production at that time of year. Topics include site selection, sprayer calibration, Mesonet tools, soil and water quality, insect management, irrigation, marketing, harvesting and more.

The course will feature both classroom and hands-on learning opportunities in the vineyard. Specialists from OSU Extension will lead discussions and share research-based information with participants.

Continuing Education Units from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, are requested for categories 1A and 10, as well as private applicators. Participants must attend at least four classes to receive a certificate.

For additional information, contact Essary at 405-744-7472 or email at aaron.essary@okstate.edu.

OSU Extension uses research-based information to help all Oklahomans solve local issues and concerns, promote leadership and manage resources wisely throughout the state’s 77 counties. Most information is available at little to no cost.