This email today got me to check my soil moisture meters. I wasn’t thinking that the vineyard could need water this early, but sure enough, at least for our vineyard, the soils are already getting dry down at least the 18 inch soil depth, which is where our moisture meters are.. So, we are now turning on our vineyard irrigation early this year. See below for UCD Agricultural Advisor email 3-30-31:

While the soil still has some moisture, it is drying fast with the warmer temperatures and the windy days. I know historically that many of you have not irrigated until May or June. You may want to reconsider that this year. Start monitoring your soil moisture now. The vines need plenty of water starting at budbreak for the best growth. For a sandier soil 12” is a good depth for monitoring, for clay soil 24” or less if wherever the soil changes texture.

Here’s an article about vineyard irrigation that might be of interest to you.  https://www.winebusiness.com/news/?go=getArticle&dataId=243206

Cindy

Cindy Fake

University of California Cooperative Extension

Placer & Nevada Counties

Horticulture and Small Farms Advisor

11477 E Avenue, Auburn, CA 95603