Nestled in the heart of Ohioıs major grape region is a 30-acre
research plot dedicated to improving production efficiency of grapes which includes
fruit destined for the juice and wine industry as well as table grapes. OARDCıs Grape
Research Branch is situated in Ashtabula County just three miles south of Lake Erie.
In 1984 the Ohio Legislature appropriated funds for OARDC to establish
a grape research facility. Ashtabula County commissioners provided a portion of county
home farmland for building and vineyard construction. The vineyards were established on
five of the most desirable acres at the branch.
Horticultural research has included experiments on juice, wine and
table grape cultivars, rootstock-scion interactions, chemical growth regulators, nutrition
and general cultural practices. Rootstock interaction studies examine cultivars like White
Riesling and Cabernet franc. Another study involves the hybrid wine cultivar Seyval blanc
trained and pruned to four trellising systems. OARDC scientists look closely at
vine canopy light interception and vineyard economics to save growers money. Scientists
at OARDCıs Wooster campus then examine the quality of wines produced from the grapes at
the branch.
Pinot gris is a high-quality wine varietal also studied at the branch.
Vineyard establishment irrigation, mulches, growth tubes and the economics of
production are evaluated. Scientists are looking at the varietyıs resistance to insects
and diseases.
Newer studies focus on the culture and adaptation of newly introduced
grape cultivars. Scientists are examining lesser-known grape varieties that they feel may
benefit Ohioıs grape and wine industry. Fruit from these vines will be used in further
wine-making studies at Wooster.
The Grape Research Branch promotes an educational program for students
from kindergarten through college. Over 300 students tour the facility each year. An
"After School Discovery Program" caters to fourth- to sixth-grade students. The
branch also hosts the Winter Pruning School, and is developing educational materials like
coloring books to introduce students and their parents to the grape industry and the
research taking place here.
Studies at the Grape Research Branch involve horticulturists, plant
pathologists, entomologists, viticulturists and enologists. They are the keys to this
branchıs success. Input from area growers is critical in the planning and development of
many of the projects because they face challenges in their vineyards every day. Of special
note is the Grape Research Branch Liaison Committee, a group of growers, wine and juice
producers, OARDC scientists and OSU Extension specialists and county agents who advise
branch staff and suggest research projects.
Research at this branch benefits Ohio grape growers it helps them
identify problems, find solutions and establish new management practices to ensure the
quality and value of their production.