France – Vaucluse: project for a viticulture nursery and creation of a forest garden

Background & challenges

Alexandre is a farmer and winegrower in the Vaucluse. He currently has eight plots in production, five of which are planted with vines. The estate is part of the Vignerons Indépendants (Independent Winegrowers) trade association and is committed (but not certified) to organic farming, biodynamics, and permaculture.

This estate has been making wine since 2017 – small quantity production of light and fruity wines on 2.76 hectares. Yet the main activity still remains producing old varieties of grapevine plants that are local and drought resistant. Alexandre also has small areas planted with olive trees, truffle oaks, lavender, and for market gardening.

Alexandre wants to reintroduce trees to his farming system.

The first part of the project consists of planting 700 metres of hedgerows in and around the vineyard plots, with 789 trees of 32 different species.

There are various objectives, but one that really stands out is Alexandre tackling the impacts of the mistral wind and drying out of the vines! Indeed, the farm lies in a wind corridor. In the face of climate change, this tree planting project also seeks to create a microclimate that will keep the wines fresh and light. In addition, by planting a variety of species, the estate will enhance the appearance of its landscape and improve biodiversity on its land. Last but not least, Alexandre wishes to restore soil fertility by planting trees.

The second part of the project will involve creating a forest garden (or ‘edible forest’) by combining market gardening with high-growing trees on another plot. Thirty-six high-growing trees of four different species will be planted and accommodate a market gardening area.

These plantings will be done over the winter of 2022/2023.

In addition to this agroforestry project, the estate wishes to develop ecotourism and training. Eco-lodges and infrastructure will be built for public open days, conferences, seminars and training; he aims being to raise awareness of agroforestry, organic farming, and biodynamics.

Introducing 825 trees on the Alexandre plots will deliver many benefits, namely:

• Improve soil fertility by boosting the level of organic matter and limiting erosion (wind and water) on the plots;
• Diversify biodiversity through a wide range of different species that will provide shelter and food for native wildlife;
• Raise public awareness of sustainable agriculture and viticulture practices (agroforestry, organic, biodynamic);
• Create a microclimate on the plots, thus protecting the vines from the effects of climate change.

Works timeline

• October 2022: soil preparation, plant delivery and staking;
• November 2022 to January 2023: planting trees on the plots and site launch (farmer, AFAF);
• November 2023 to March 2024: replanting and first stage of maintenance with tree pruning training;
• 2024 to 2029: maintenance stages (pruning training and pruning)