Grapes

Skeltons offers a full technical advisory service covering:

In Field Inspections » Skeltons technical advisors are constantly on the road visiting vineyards and viticulturists, taking note of what’s happening with the vines, fruit and soil (ground). We have an inherent understanding of the grape and wine production cycle and the experience to identify solutions to problems.  Our objective, unbiased advice is given freely at no charge. We provide our growers with verbal advice when we visit as part of our normal rounds – we often see things that the grower may not have noticed evolving over days or weeks, plus we’re aware of what’s happening on vineyards around the region, so we pass on information and solutions. If we’re called on to make vineyard visits to look at specific matters of concern, we can either make verbal or written reports, outlining the issues and making recommendations for solutions. Contact a Skeltons technical advisor if you would like one to visit your vineyard.   Crop protection programmes » Skeltons has developed a reputation for our user-friendly crop protection programmes and we produce sort-after wall charts relied on by growers to give clear and concise instructions on what products are best to apply when. We are also fully conversant of how specific climatic episodes such as too much rain, or cold southerly polar blasts, can affect protection regimes. If you would like a copy of a Crop Protection Programme wall chart contact a Skeltons technical advisor page. If you would like a copy of a Crop Protection Programme wall chart contact a Skeltons technical advisor.   Nutritional Programmes » With well-trained eyes and sound science to back us, Skeltons technical advisors can assess and provide advice on what nutrients may be deficient in your soils and plants, and how this may be remedied. We have developed comprehensive nutritional programmes that are available to our customers.   We also make suggestions on appropriate actions if we identify any issues during our in-field inspections.   Organic Production Advice » Skeltons has been at the forefront of organic production in horticulture and viticulture.  Malcolm Crawford,one of Skeltons longest serving technical advisors, who is now supporting the field team technically, is considered a pioneer and his expertise is sought after by both industry and grower alike.  Malcolm and others in the Skeltons team have been instrumental in developing specific recommendations for crop protection and nutritional programmes in organics. Contact a Skeltons technical advisor if you wish to discuss aspects regarding organic production.   Soil and Leaf Testing » Skeltons has a close association with specialist nutrient analysis experts, Hill Laboratories.  Our technical advisors can take soil and plant samples at the appropriate time and using the information determined by Hill’s comprehensive testing, prepare reports that identify any issues and give unbiased recommendations on remedial action. These test results form a base line that we then use in assessing and addressing your soil’s nutritional levels and your crop’s nutritional requirements in subsequent years. Contact us if you would like a soil or leaf sample test undertaken by a Skeltons technical advisor.   Crop Monitoring Services » Skeltons technical advisors provide an informal crop monitoring service using trained and experienced eyes.  If you require a more structured monitoring assessment we can organise a reputable specialist firm to undertake this work for you at your cost.   Property Mapping » Maps are often required to assist with sustainable wine production processes. They are also very handy for vineyard operations.  We are able to produce quality property maps for customers using map writing computer software.  These maps can be as broad or as detailed as you need.  Contact one of our technical advisors.   Weather Monitoring » Skeltons technical advisors keep a sharp eye on the weather through in house monitoring services with access to HortPlus or Metris data to ensure that we anticipate the protection needs crops at critical times. We can also sign growers up onto weather forecasting services specific to the region if required.