Vine Lines DIY: Setting Up Your Own Field Trials

摘要

AS AN Extension agent, my job centers around making recommendations to growers that are based on scientific studies done by researchers. Some of that research may take place in a lab or a greenhouse, but the majority of the research that we use is based on studies done in vineyards — either experimental vineyards or in growers' blocks. These trials are important because they look at how effective a new practice or product is in the field. Field trials can be set up to be very rigorous and complex, with multiple replications and/or multiple treatments. They can also be quite simple, such as comparing two different rates of fertilizer application. So simple, in fact, that with a few basic rules to keep in mind, you can set up your own field trials in your vineyards to help you improve your vineyard management practices.