Farm Overview
Douw van der Merwe from D&E Fresh is a highly experienced table grape grower managing a vineyard with 32-hectares currently planted in Emerald, Queensland. Located in the Central Highlands, Emerald’s warm subtropical climate allows for some of Australia’s earliest table grape harvests.
Why He Chose Worm Brew
“I needed something to add to my existing program, to assist with the health of the vines and the biological elements in the soil,” Douw explains. He was looking for a product that would complement his current biological and nutritional inputs.
Application & Early Results
Worm Brew was applied as an early-season foliar spray in combination with phosphorus, kelp, and fulvic and humic acids. “I applied Worm Brew through an early season foliar spray and even though it wasn’t used over a long period, I could definitely notice the decrease in various pests and diseases,” he says. Despite only trialling it for half a season, the reduction in pest and disease pressure was clearly visible.
Recommendation & Next Steps
“I don’t think we’ve really seen all the benefits of this product yet, as we’ve only used it for half a season. I’m sure I would be able to elaborate more on the results next year, because I’m going to include this product in my after-harvest program as well,” Douw shares.
Even with limited use so far, his verdict is clear:
“In saying that, I would highly recommend this product, even though we haven’t seen all results yet.”
Douw’s early success with Worm Brew highlights its potential as a valuable tool for table grape growers seeking healthier vines and improved natural defence against pests and diseases. We see this with our other table grape and avocado growers using Worm Brew specifically target diseases like powdery mildew.
