Dear newsgroup,

5 long years ago I started planning a vineyard in my backyard. 4 years
ago I planted 8 chambourcin vines and have nursed them along over the
years. I was supposed to get fruit last year, but was infested by
black rot. This year I've sprayed for the black rot, and have it only
partially under control, but I don't think that is the worst of my
problems.

My vines are dying and I have no idea why. An entire vine will
suddenly start to droop and within a couple weeks it is completely dead
(or at least all the shoots are dried and shriveled). It started on
one vine and has now spread to three. I fear for the entire vineyard.

I've dug up some roots around one vine and see no problems.
There are no signs of moles.
They've had plenty of water.
There's been no roundup etc in the area.
I've been spraying captan (mixed with soap) to control the black rot.

I would certainly appreciate any advice anyone could lend to help me
save my precious vineyard. I've setup a pictures website at the
following address:

http://home.columbus.rr.com/bendig/vineyard/

Please help! :~(

John

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