[Growwine] grow tubes

[Ron Olinyk]

I think any problems associated with the use of grow-tubes must be 
region related. I've had them in my small vineyard (located near London, 
Ont) for the past 2 years and have had only minimal problems.
I've not seen any mildew problems as described in other posts, relating 
to poor airflow. My tubes are attached to bamboo sticks which are 
somewhat flexible and lightly tossed by the wind. No air-space at the 
bottom or soil build-up either. My theory is that there is a chimney 
effect -as the tube is warmed by the sun or a breeze is present, it 
sucks in air from the bottom or side edge. Since these tubes are not a 
hermetic chamber, there is plenty of places for air to enter and 
circulate. ...just a theory...
They work great also for round-up app and/or weed trimmer/mower protection.
They are not so good for keeping some weeds out. Grasses seem to enjoy 
the small protected areas and grow up thru the tubes.
And since they are a nice warm tidy chamber, bugs (including wasps) seem 
to make them a home. Nothing that some pesticide can't cure though. I 
love placing the nozzle at the top and giving a short blast just to 
watch the choking sleepy mist curl from the top -makes me feel a bit 
Kevorkian :)
They're a good protection for the young vine overall I think. I've left 
mine on thru the past 2 winters but may remove them soon now that the 
trellis is nearly in place. The vines really seem to be telling me 
they'd like to cast off their diapers and explore the wires.

Ron O