This was forwarded to us by Paul VanderMarck who just got back from a trip to Canary Islands. There’s so much wind that they plant the vines in pits that they dig in the volcanic soil.
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Somewhat reminds me of the coiled vines in Santorini to protect from wind. But even more unique!
There are similar vineyards in Pantelleria island, Sicily (IT). The reason is the same: to protect from wind. It is used to make a really good passito di Pantelleria.
More specifically to protect them from the dry Sahara winds off of the continent. The volcanic soil also draws moisture out of the air to “water” them. Wonder who figured that one out!!
Actually, I think there is a dual purpose for this type of planting. The wind is one but there is no effective means to get water to the vines and the rainfall in this region during the growing season is not adequate. The free moisture from the air can be found on the soil surface and on the leaves and is contained within the bowl and ultimately winds up at the base of the vine.