Seaweed extracts improve copper uptake of grapevine

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of seaweed extract on macro and micro nutrient uptake of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Karaerik). One-year-old grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Karaerik) saplings were planted in perlite with different nutrient element levels under greenhouse conditions. Three seaweed extracts, Maxicrop, Proton and Algipower, were sprayed on the foliage at different concentrations (0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g l−1). Results indicated that foliar application of seaweed extract increased Cu uptake of grapevine in the growth media which had insufficient nutrient elements. No significant differences in nutrient uptake of grapevine were obtained among the three seaweed extract types. The results showed that nutrient element level of growth media was more effective on stimulation of N, P, K, Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn and Zn uptake than seaweed extracts. In contrast, seaweed extract was more effective in supporting Cu uptake in vines than nutrient element level of growth media.