We have finally taken the plunge! Ottawa Vineyards, Inc. is stepping into the management position of an established vineyard near Maxwell, Iowa! We have over 3 acres of grapes in 3 separate fields. Our goal for this year is to get the vines back into producing shape and replace the ones that have failed.
Pruning the vines began in January and we finally finished in April! Just after we finished pruning the old canes, we had 3 consecutive nights of freezing temperatures that really damaged the oncoming vines and buds.
Everything seems to be making a comeback now, althrough they won’t produce as much as if they had not been hit by the freezes.
Next weekend we’re having a Sucker Pruning Party to rid the vines of the energy sapping suckers. It will be a great time starting with coffee, muffins, and instructions. Then everyone will hit the fields and lop off those suckers! We figure a couple hours in the field, after which a nice spaghetti lunch and wines will be served along with some light and live music!
I’ll keep you posted on the progress of our vineyards.
ottawavineyards 
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