Just before spring, we are treated to a bright yellow sea of mustard flowers here in Saint Helena. An annual occurrence, these flowers carpet the ground between the vines and make for a beautiful photo backdrop. But they have a purpose beyond aesthetics—they are a crucial part of a vineyard’s lifecycle and contribute to a diverse and rich ecosystem. Read on to learn how the mustard protects and nourishes the vines.
- Mustard has naturally high levels of biofumigants that help keep away microscopic worms called nematodes that like to munch on the vine’s roots.
- Biodiversity is crucial to a vineyard’s overall health and the mustard attracts pollinators and other critters that help make the vineyard a complete and healthy ecosystem.
- On steep, sloped terrain the mustard helps prevent erosion and nutrient run-off. On flatter ground, it helps regulate moisture, especially when the soil can’t drain well on its own.
- Nitrogen is a crucial nutrient for healthy soil and mustard is excellent at recycling it.
