Viticulture

Vines love good soil. Our biochar brings structure, water retention capacity and microbial life to the vineyard.

30 July 2025 / Comments

Vineyards - Strong vines thanks to strong soils

Why viticulture needs sustainable solutions more than ever

Viticulture is particularly sensitive to climate change. Increasing periods of drought, heavy rainfall, soil erosion and nutrient depletion are affecting the vines. At the same time, the requirements for sustainability, biodiversity and resource efficiency are increasing - both in conventional and organic cultivation.

Young vines in particular are dependent on a stable, structurally rich and water-storing soil environment in the first few years. However, old vineyards also benefit from soil regeneration - especially on erosion-prone or compacted areas.

Biochar is key here: it improves water retention, nutrient availability and soil life - permanently. It also stores carbon and makes the vine more resilient to drought stress and soil fatigue.

How we use biochar in viticulture

Our approach integrates biochar in different phases of viticulture - from the new planting year to the rehabilitation of existing plants.

New plants: When planting new vines, biochar is applied specifically in the planting hole or planting strip - activated with nutrients or mycorrhiza - to provide the young roots with an optimal environment. Soil improvement in crops: Biochar is applied shallowly or selectively - e.g. in the understock area - often combined with compost or organic fertilizer. Activation: The biochar is pre-loaded with liquid fertilizer, fermentation residues or compost extracts. This makes it work faster and supports soil life. Erosion protection and humus build-up: Thanks to its porous structure, biochar helps to stabilize the soil. In combination with mulch or catch crops, it restores structure and humus in the long term.

What we specifically offer

Biochar for viticulture: Our biochar is finely ground, homogeneous and free from foreign matter - ideal for planting holes, row application or composting. Activated biochar: On request, we can supply pre-loaded mixtures - e.g. with vinasse, liquid manure, compost tea or mycorrhiza - ready for use on your farm. Substrate mixtures for new plants: We offer ready-to-use substrates for planting - water-retaining, structurally stable and enriched with biochar. Advice on application: We help with integration into existing technology - whether manual work, row crop cultivators, mulchers or slurry tankers. Project funding and CO₂ documentation: biochar in viticulture can be documented as a carbon sink and used as part of sustainability programs - including certificates.

Conclusion

Healthy vines grow in healthy soil. Biochar improves the soil structure in the long term, reduces stress for the vine and actively stores CO₂.

If you want to make your vineyard more sustainable and resilient - contact us. We provide knowledge, products and practical solutions.

Viticulture & special crops