The shortage of labour this season has highlighted the need for equipment to do the jobs normally done by hand.

Kirkland UK, a family company established over 20 years ago, has a history that can be traced back to the 1800s.  The company provides specialist machinery and equipment for vineyard and orchard management. Vineyard finds out how the company prides itself on providing growers with machinery solutions – using the team’s experience, knowledge, and problem-solving tenacity. 

Over 20 leading vineyard managers and winemakers from the south east joined leading specialist tractor and machinery dealer NP Seymour and vineyard contractors SJ Barnes at a vineyard on the Kent/East Sussex border on Friday 8 October for a special machinery demonstration day. 

In a series of demonstrations, tractor specialist Landini has been working with technology firms to bring growers up-to-date on precision technologies, which can offer huge potential to help establish and manage vine and fruit crops.

The rewards of running a sustainable vineyard are there for those seeking improved soils, biodiversity, naturally healthy vines, reduced chemical sprays and fertiliser inputs however it brings extra challenges for which special equipment is needed. 

Helping vineyards find the right kit to deal with the weeds.

Entering production in June 2021, the Mistral2 will be taking and updating the name of the outstanding Landini series of compact tractors. The new range features an extensive revolution engine wise, moving from the Yanmar Tier 3 to the Kohler Stage V compliant engine. 

Vine-Works invests in a Wagner planting machine to meet growing demand.

If the Romans are deemed to have introduced Britons to grape growing, knapsack sprayer manufacturer Berthoud can lay claim to be a pioneer in controlling vine pests and diseases.

Very soon vineyards will be in the ‘thick of it’ as rapid vegetative growth can result in dense untamed canopies. Vineyard finds out from some of the UK’s leading vineyard managers their techniques, timings and methods for leaf removal in the quest to achieve vine balance.