WHEN Thomas Jefferson planted European grapevines in Virginia more than 200 years ago, they quickly succumbed to pests and diseases. Grape varieties that were native to the area like muscadines and those related to Vitis labrusca could survive in thisenvironment, but for the Vitis vinifera varieties that made the wines that he loved to drink, the environment presented challenges that they had no defense against. Today, most North American vineyards, and particularly those in the East, face many of the same challenges as those planted by Jefferson. Fortunately, we understand much more about managing pests like phylloxera, and diseases like black rot and anthracnose, and have tools available to keep them in check. But the basic fact still remains —we're trying to grow many grape varieties in conditions that are different from those where they evolved and are genetically adapted to.
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