Bloom signals more than color in the field. It marks the transition into one of the most critical irrigation periods of the year. As crops move from dormancy into active growth, water demand begins to shift quickly. Root systems wake up. Canopies expand. Evapotranspiration increases. What worked during winter or early pre-season conditions will not carry you through bloom and fruit set. This is the moment to recalibrate. Start with a System Check Before peak demand hits, take time to evaluate your irrigation infrastructure: Inspect valves, filters, and pressure regulators Confirm flow meter accuracy Review pump performance under load Test soil moisture sensors and telemetry connectivity Verify that automation schedules match current crop stage Small inconsistencies in early season can become major inefficiencies during full production. Match Irrigation to Crop Physiology During bloom, consistency matters. Over-irrigation can reduce oxygen in the root zone and impact nutrient uptak

This November, growers and agricultural professionals will gather in San Luis Obispo for the 2025 Sustainable Ag Expo, an event designed to foster innovation, provide high-impact education, and create meaningful connections across the wine and agricultural industries. When/Where: Kick-Off Event - Monday, November 10, 5:00-7:00 pm  |  at Center of Effort Winery Trade Show & Seminars - Tuesday, November 11 & Wednesday, November 12, 7:00 am-5:00 pm  |  at Madonna Expo Center What to Expect The 2025 program offers a robust lineup of content focused on critical topics like climate resilience, automation, and workforce development, with 17 in-person seminars offering 20+ hours of CE credit. Two-day ticket holders also receive access to 13 online courses with an additional 10+ CE hours available from October 13–November 28. Even More Opportunities to Connect and Learn Kick-Off Event: The event begins with a special Monday Night Kick-Off hosted at Cen

As summer unfolds across Napa Valley, vineyards are entering veraison, shifting their focus from growth to sugar accumulation and flavor development. For winegrowers, this period marks a delicate balancing act: providing just enough water to support berry development while inducing the mild stress that concentrates flavors and enhances wine quality. Historically, irrigation decisions during veraison have relied on experience, visual cues, and sometimes educated guesswork. But with water becoming an increasingly precious resource and quality standards higher than ever, Napa growers are turning to precision irrigation tools that offer deeper insights and control. Why Veraison Demands Precision During veraison, the vine’s water needs become more nuanced. Over-irrigation can dilute berry flavors and increase canopy growth, leading to shading and higher disease pressure. Under-irrigation, on the other hand, risks stalling berry development and causing uneven ripening. This fine line r

In regions like Napa, irrigation automation is more than just a tool—it’s essential for ensuring the health and quality of the vines. 🍇 Roy shares how transparency in automation has transformed his vineyard management: “Having transparency in our automation systems has allowed us to develop better irrigation schedules and implement them more effectively.” For vineyards in Napa, automation technology is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. 💧 With increasing challenges like unpredictable weather and water resource management, having the right tools to make informed, timely decisions can make all the difference. Automation ensures precise irrigation, optimized water use, and peace of mind for vineyards across Napa Valley. It’s about preserving the legacy of Napa’s fine wines while preparing for the future. #WiseConn #Napa #DropPointAutomation #DropControl #Vineyards #Vines #IrrigationAutomation #Vineyard #NapaValley #NapaWine

Unpredictable weather, tighter water regulations, and rising costs are reshaping vineyard management. In our latest article, learn how Roy Chapin of 4 Winds Winery uses automation technology to navigate these challenges and ensure the health of his vines. Read the full article to see how these tools can help vineyards save resources, improve efficiency, and thrive in the years ahead. Article Here

“Food disconnect” is a term used to describe the average consumer’s lack of knowledge about where their food comes from and how it’s made. When it comes to wine, most consumers only see the finished product in the grocery store or tasting room! While everyday agricultural practices may feel ordinary to you, these topics are fascinating to the average consumer, who likely has little to no insight into the block to bottle process behind their glass of wine. Describing specific practices and why they are important helps customers understand the time and care that went into producing their wine. Sharing your unique story welcomes them to take part in the good feelings that come from supporting a business that is doing better for the people and the planet. People care about social and environmental issues, and want to support brands that share their values and do something about it. This week’s Marketing Tip tells the inspiring Sustainable Story of how Bi

Capital budgets are tight right now. Growers are in the tough part of the economic cycle. Input costs are rising across the board. Vineyard managers know they need to invest in automation to help control costs and better manage their irrigation, but if the budget’s not there, it’s not there.  That’s why we’re running an Automate Now, Settle Up Later promotion for all new clients who sign up before June 30th.  We want to give you the budget flexibility you need to get up and running this season, while paying zero hardware costs until 2025.  Message us or request a demo at lumo.ag

There's Still Time to get Your Tickets for the Sustainable Ag Expo! November 14-15, 2023 | Madonna Inn, San Luis Obispo The two-day seminar and tradeshow provides an opportunity for farmers, ag professionals, and pest control advisors to learn about the latest farming research, resource issues, and business trends related to sustainable agriculture. "The Sustainable Ag Expo is a forum for sharing knowledge and experiences with each other.” - Bart Haycraft The Expo brings together researchers and growers so you can earn continuing education hours and improve your business all while connecting with peers and agriculture companies. Our Exhibitor community is growing stronger than ever with the return of many of our fantastic Business Members, as well as some exciting new faces! CE HOURS APPROVED: DPR: 8.5 hours in-person (1.5 Laws & Regs), 9.5 hours online (1 Laws & Regs) CCA: 16.5 hours in-person, 13 hours online THAT'S A TOTAL OF 18 DPR & 29.