Episode
095: Transitioning from Conventional to Organic Grape Farming with Rob Warren
- Podcast
- Vineyard Underground
- Published
- Apr 14, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3587
- Processing state
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Summary
Organic grape production is gaining momentum, but making the transition from conventional farming requires careful planning, patience, and a willingness to adapt. In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz welcomes Rob Warren, owner and operator of Desert Willow Vineyard and Warren Farms in Seminole, Texas, to share his experience converting his vineyard to certified organic production. Rob explains how his agricultural background in organic row crops gave him experience with organic systems long before he applied those principles to grape growing. As consumer demand began to shift toward more natural and sustainably produced wines, wineries started seeking organic fruit, prompting Rob to pursue certification. During the conversation, Fritz and Rob walk through the realities of transitioning a vineyard to organic management. Rob discusses the three-year certification timeline, the importance of documenting the final use of conventional inputs, and the need for growers to rethink pest, disease, and weed management strategies. A major focus of the episode is that Rob uses sheep in the vineyard. The sheep help control weeds, provide natural fertilization, and even assist with canopy management by removing leaves in the fruiting zone. Throughout the episode, Rob provides honest background information on the challenges and the long-term benefits of improved soil health and stronger vine resilience. For vineyard owners considering organic production, this episode offers practical guidance and real-world lessons from a grower who has successfully made the switch. In this episode, you will hear: Market demand from wineries and consumers increasingly favors organic grape production Weed management is often the biggest early challenge when moving away from conventional herbi…