A systematic approach to select new table grape varieties for cultivation
Date
2021-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH SUMMARY : Table grape producers are replacing vineyards with new table grape varieties. The change in day-to-day operations and in the financial performance of a Farm Business imposed by an alteration in the variety portfolio is uncertain. Producers consider several factors when selecting new table grape varieties. Varieties that are disease resistant, tolerant to transportation and cold storage, produce large yields and have conical shape bunches with round berries are desirable for cultivation. Producers consider these factors when selecting a new variety along with the harvest window and the profitability of the variety. The variation in input cost to improve bunch configuration and fruit quality is directly influenced by the canopy management strategy. While the price received per carton is influenced by fruit quality and market conditions.
This study investigates the attractiveness of seventeen different table grape varieties in the Berg River by evaluating five quantitative factors and the weekly pack schedule. The factors that influence the financial performance of the Farm Business are yield, price, royalty costs, infield labour hours and chemical hormone costs. The factors are determined for each variety in a simulation model to calculate the modified internal rate of return (MIRR) in an enterprise model for a re-established vineyard block over fifteen-years. The MIRR does allow to measure how attractive is a vineyard investment without considering the total investment requirement.
The purpose of the study is to identify the key factors a farm manager should consider when selecting a new table grape variety. Two farms are simulated to determine what effect the change of a table grape variety on a vineyard block will have on the MIRR profitability criteria. The MIRR is interpreted with consideration to the evaluated factors to determine what factor is the most influential towards profitability. The quantitative value of the factors was calculated with data provided from farmers, consultants, researchers and a fruit exporter. The study revealed yield is the most influential factor towards profitability, followed by price. While royalty cost should only be considered in decision-making when yield and price per carton between the alternative varieties are similar. The study concludes that labour cost is higher for the traditional varieties, while new varieties require less infield labour. The last evaluated financial factor, the cost of hormone regulators, is too low to influence profitability.
The simulation model is a helpful management aid to make vineyard investment decisions by measuring these factors against one another. The model can be used to estimate the required labour for the following seasons and provides a dynamic platform to administrate the labour hours required to complete various activities. An expanded variety portfolio can be researched in future studies by analysing the available data of the other table grape production regions.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING : Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING : Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
Description
Thesis (MCom)--Stellenbosch University, 2021.
Keywords
Table grapes, Grapes -- Selection -- Economic aspects, Grapes -- Varieties -- Selection -- Economic aspects, Viticulture, UCTD