'Vitiforestry': French winemakers plant trees in bid to counter climate change
Summary
French winemakers are planting trees alongside grapevines, a practice called "vitiforestry," to protect vineyards from climate change effects like heatwaves and frost. This approach is based on an old tradition and is showing promising results in maintaining grape quality and yield during extreme weather.Key Facts
- Vitiforestry means growing trees together with grapevines in vineyards.
- Trees provide shade during heatwaves and protect vines from spring frost.
- The practice is traditional in countries like Italy and Greece but is now being revived in France.
- French winegrowers are planting local tree species such as apple, pear, peach, hazelnut, and quince trees near the vines.
- Initial results from the Rhône region showed vines with trees coped better during a 40°C heatwave in 2025.
- Research shows that trees lower leaf and fruit temperatures, helping to save the harvest.
- Regional governments in France support vitiforestry with subsidies and legal rules were established in 2024.
- The method is expanding to major French wine areas like Bordeaux, Languedoc, and Champagne.
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