Integrated Production

integrated production or IP, European system of viticulture aimed at reducing environmental degradation in vineyards while at the same time maintaining economic viability of viticulture. It is similar in philosophy to sustainable viticulture. As the name suggests, it has its roots in integrated pest management, or IPM.

IP was developed as a concept in 1974, and major development has come from France, Germany, and, especially, Switzerland. Integrated production emphasizes a holistic approach to viticulture, by considering the vineyard as an ‘agro-ecosystem’. The reduction of chemical inputs, especially nitrogen fertilizer and broad spectrum insecticides, is a first step. Where rainfall is sufficient, cover crops are established, ideally to include legumes. canopy management is also important to reduce spraying against botrytis and powdery mildew. Some spraying is permitted, with restrictions more on frequency than on type of spray material.