Vineyard Management Practices Research Articles

A field investigation on the soil management practices in a productive vineyard considering C sequestration and water resistance of soil structure

AbstractOptimal soil structure is linked to soil organic matter (SOM). Different soil management practice alternates SOM but the storing C to soil structure formation in vineyard soils is not sufficiently studied. In addition, understanding the impact of soil management practices in vineyard on changes in SOM and soil structure is crucial for sustainable viticulture. In this study conducted in a productive vineyard near Nitra city, Slovakia, we investigated the dynamics of individual size-fractions of water-stable aggregates (WSA) as results of changes in soil organic matter (SOM) under different soil management practices. Five distinct management practices – Intensive tillage system (T); Intensive tillage system with poultry manure (T + M); Strip grass (G); Fertilization in lower rates of NPK (NPK 1) to grass strips; and Fertilization in higher level of NPK (NPK 2) to grass strips were adopted to to be tested. The results have shown that the highest content of soil organic carbon (SOC) 20.3 ± 3.68 g kg−1, labile carbon (CL) 2.71 ± 0.78 g kg−1, and the most favor soil structure were identified in NPK 1, however, the most effectively improved soil structure and C sequestration (SOC: 19.9 ± 3.88 g kg−1; CL: 2.53 ± 0.83 g kg−1) was under G treatment. SOC had a more significant influence on the content of water-stable aggregates than CL. Intense changes in SOM took place in larger size-fractions of water-stable macroaggregates (WSAma) above 2 mm, while smaller WSAma below 2 mm and water-stable microaggregates were more stable.

Management practices, and not surrounding habitats, drive bird and arthropod biodiversity within vineyards

Agrochemical use and habitat loss associated with agriculture are drivers of biodiversity loss worldwide, and biodiversity-friendly farming practices, including organic management, are increasingly promoted by policy and industry in an attempt to offset this. Grapes are an important perennial crop globally, and in the UK, viticulture is the fastest growing agricultural sector and sustainable vineyard management is promoted by the Sustainable Wines of Great Britain ‘SWGB’ scheme. Here, we performed the first assessment of the simultaneous effects of surrounding habitats and vineyard management practices on bird and arthropod biodiversity across 22 English vineyards (10 certified-organic, 11 SWGB-accredited, and 3 both). We surveyed birds using point counts and arthropods with pitfall traps, and used linear mixed modelling to relate diversity and abundance to habitat and management predictors at landscape and local scales. We show that arthropod abundance is significantly higher on organic vineyards, whilst bird diversity is significantly lower on SWGB-accredited vineyards, but we find no other significant effects of organic certification or SWGB-accreditation on biodiversity. We also find no significant effects of the surrounding habitat structure on the biodiversity of birds and arthropods. Instead, we show that ecotoxicity scores derived from agrochemical use data have a significant negative impact on bird diversity, and on arthropod abundance and diversity. Organic status predicts a significant reduction in ecotoxicity scores, but only when application frequency is not considered, and contradictorily, SWGB-accredited vineyards have higher ecotoxicity scores than those without accreditation. Ground vegetation cover has a consistent, positive effect on bird and arthropod diversity, with model predicted diversity increasing 1.5 and 2.5-fold, respectively, in vineyards with the highest vegetation cover, and herbicide use has a negative effect on the vegetation cover. Our research demonstrates that individual management practices have a stronger effect on vineyard biodiversity than the habitat context, overall management regime or certification. Our study sets an important baseline for vineyard management and accreditation schemes and generates key recommendations for improvement. To benefit biodiversity within vineyards, we recommend that sustainability accreditation schemes include requirements to reduce the ecotoxicity of used agrochemicals, and promote higher ground vegetation cover and height by reducing herbicide use.

Foliar applications improves grapevine plant cold hardiness

Understanding and enhancing the cold hardiness of vines is crucial for viticulture, as it directly impacts the sustainability and productivity of vineyards in diverse climatic regions. This study, therefore, meticulously examined grapevine responses to various treatments and sampling times, revealing nuanced dynamics in cold tolerance, physiological parameters, and growth outcomes. Our study found that treatments like K2SO4 significantly enhanced grapevine cold hardiness. Specifically, K2SO4 showed high R² values, indicating a substantial improvement in low-temperature hardiness for primary buds and in processes like bud burst and sprouting. Our results also revealed significant differences in cold hardiness across various treatments and sampling times, with K2SO4 leading to the highest LT50 value for primary buds. Additionally, in single-bud cuttings, K2SO4 application improved viability rates, root and shoot growth, and rooting rates, particularly observed in January. Growth parameters in single-bud cuttings further illustrated the impact of treatments, with the viability rate of primary buds being 61.5 % in the K2SO4 application and 62.0 % in the CaCl2 application. The highest root length of 2.5 cm and shoot length of 3.4 cm, along with a rooting rate of 61.0 %, root scale of 1.4, root number of 6.9, and basal callus rate of 24.6 % were obtained from the K2SO4 application. Our research found that the applications of K2SO4 and CaCl2 increased the cold hardiness of the buds and phloem tissue of the vine by approximately 1 °C compared to the control. It has been concluded that K2SO4 and CaCl2 applications during development can reduce the cold injury rate and economic losses in vines in areas with high risk of winter cold damaging events. The comprehensive findings of this study offer actionable insights that can significantly contribute to the refinement of vineyard management practices, promoting optimal grapevine performance and hardiness in the face of varying cold conditions.

Genomic analysis reveals genes that encode the synthesis of volatile compounds by a Bacillus velezensis-based biofungicide used in the treatment of grapes to control Aspergillus carbonarius

Fungal control strategies based on the use of Bacillus have emerged in agriculture as eco-friendly alternatives to replace/reduce the use of synthetic pesticides. Bacillus sp. P1 was reported as a new promising strain for control of Aspergillus carbonarius, a known producer of ochratoxin A, categorized as possible human carcinogen with high nephrotoxic potential. Grape quality can be influenced by vineyard management practices, including the use of fungal control agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the quality parameters of Chardonnay grapes exposed to an antifungal Bacillus-based strategy for control of A. carbonarius, supporting findings by genomic investigations. Furthermore, genomic tools were used to confirm that the strain P1 belongs to the non-pathogenic species Bacillus velezensis and also to certify its biosafety. The genome of B. velezensis P1 harbors genes that are putatively involved in the production of volatiles and hydrolytic enzymes, which are responsible for releasing the free form of aroma compounds. In addition to promote biocontrol of phytopathogenic fungi and ochratoxins, the treatment with B. velezensis P1 did not change the texture (hardness and firmness), color and pH of the grapes. Heat map and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) of volatiles evaluated by GC/MS revealed that Bacillus-treated grapes showed higher levels of compounds with a pleasant odor descriptions such as 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, 2,3-butanediol, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3,4-dihydro-β-ionone, β-ionone, dihydroactinidiolide, linalool oxide, and β-terpineol. The results of this study indicate that B. velezensis P1 presents desirable properties to be used as a biocontrol agent.

From Roots to Leaves: Understanding Consumer Acceptance in Implementing Climate-Resilient Strategies in Viticulture

This study investigates consumer perceptions and acceptance of innovative strategies implemented to counter the effects of climate change in the wine industry. The acceptance of wines derived from grapes grown using four different vineyard management practices—kaolin application, use of plant growth regulators, introduction of resilient rootstocks, and fungus-resistant grape varieties (PIWI)—is analyzed. Utilizing a latent profile analysis, the study identifies five distinct consumer profiles, each displaying unique sensitivities and perceptions towards climate change threats. The findings reveal notable variations in consumers’ willingness to accept these innovations. Additionally, the study offers insights into how these preferences influence the marketability of wines produced using these innovative techniques. The overall results depict heterogeneous acceptance of these practices. Consumers seem more inclined to choose wines derived from vines with innovative rootstocks and those treated with kaolin. The acceptance for PIWI varieties and PGR is comparatively marginal. The outcomes of this study provide valuable insights for winegrowers, policymakers, and other industry stakeholders on effectively implementing and communicating these solutions. Overall, the research findings contribute significantly to understanding consumer behavior within the context of climate change in the wine industry, presenting substantial implications for sustainable viticulture practices and wine marketing strategies.

Effects of Vineyard Management Practices on Winegrape Yield Components. A Review Using Meta-analysis

Effects of Vineyard Management Practices on Winegrape Yield Components. A Review Using Meta-analysis

Optimizing Soil Management for Sustainable Viticulture: Insights from a Rendzic Leptosol Vineyard in the Nitra Wine Region, Slovakia

Properly chosen soil management practices can stabilize the nutrient regime in the soil, including the mobility and bioavailability of hazardous elements. This study aimed to identify the optimal soil management practices in a productive vineyard on Rendzic Leptosol in the Nitra wine region (Slovakia). Soil samples were collected each spring from two depths, 0–30 cm, and 30–60 cm, with the following treatments: T—soil tillage, P + FYM—plowed farmyard manure, G—grass strips, G + NPK1—first-level fertilization, and G + NPK2—second-level fertilization, from 2019 to 2023. The results indicated that more pronounced changes in soil properties occurred in the 0–30 cm layer. Higher NPK rates significantly affected soil sorption capacity and decreased soil pH when compared to other treatments. While G + NPK2 showed the highest storage of total N, S, P, K, and available P and K, it exhibited the lowest levels of total and available Ca. The T treatment displayed the lowest storage of C, N, S, P, and available K. In terms of hazardous metals (Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn) none exceeded the limiting values in any of the soil management practices. However, in the 0–30 cm layer, Cu concentrations exceeded the limits set by Slovak Republic regulations in the T, P + FYM, G, G + NPK1, and G + NPK2 treatments by 62.6, 73.7, 70.2, 82.1, and 102.9 mg kg−1, respectively. Additionally, as total C increased, Cr concentration was observed to decrease with correlation (r = −0.46). Positive correlations were found between total C and Zn, as well as CaCO3 and Zn in the 0–30 layer.

Organic vs. conventional: impact of cultivation treatments on the soil microbiota in the vineyard.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two vineyard management practices on the soil and its associated microbiota. The experiments were conducted in two adjacent plots, one completely organically managed and the other conventionally managed in terms of phytosanitary treatments but fertilized with organic amendments. The chemical soil analyses were correlated to the prokaryotic and fungal communities, which were studied using the metabarcoding technique. The main difference between the two treatments was a significantly higher amount of Cu in the organic managed vineyard soil, while conventional managed soil presented higher concentration of Na and Mg and was also associated with higher pH values. Despite these differences, no significant diversities were observed on soil biodiversity and microbial composition considering alpha and beta diversity metrics. However, the percentages of some phyla analyzed individually differed significantly between the two managements. Analyzing the metabolisms of these phyla, it was discovered an increment of species correlated to soils with higher organic matter content or land not used for agricultural purposes in the organic treated soil. The findings indicate that, despite the use of copper-based phytosanitary products, there was no degradation and loss of biodiversity in the organic soil microbial population compared to conventional management with the same type of fertilization, and the observed microbial population was more similar to that of natural soils.

Anatomical observations on formation and development of adventitious root primordium in canes of Vitis sp.

Understanding the anatomical aspects of adventitious root primordium formation can provide valuable insights into the improvement of propagation techniques, rootstock selection, and overall vineyard management practices in Vitis spp. This work was carried out to investigate anatomical root primordium formation in the rooted cuttings of Cabernet Sauvignon (CS, Vitis vinifera L.) and the rootstock Kober 5BB (Vitis berlandieri x V. riparia) with their relationship to stem anatomy. One-node cuttings were grown under temperature-controlled conditions for 8 weeks. After removal of the roots and calli, the stem parts were fixed in a fixative solution. A revised method of safranin staining was applied to the 90 µm thick cross-sections made with a hand microtome. It was observed that root primordia were derived from the two different regions of the cane tissues: from the groups of cells close to the outside of the conductive tissue system and from the cell groups in the deeper site, close to the pith. Cultivars showed significant differences in terms of the regions where they had their root primordial initials. Number of potential root primordia was statistically higher in CS. Both CS and 5BB had root angles in the range of 83° to 86°. It was concluded that grapevine cuttings had only induced root primordia and the capacity to produce them was dependent on the genotype. Formation and development of root primordia and the anatomical differentiation of the cell groups were similar in Cabernet Sauvignon and 5BB.

Effect of Leaf Removal and Insecticide Applications on Population Densities of Leafhoppers and Mites Associated with Grapevines.

In this study, we tested the effects of mechanical leaf removal, insecticide application, and their interaction on leafhoppers and phytophagous and predatory mites occurring in two vineyards over three growing seasons. Leaf removal was performed in the fruit zone using a two-head pulsed air leaf remover, while insecticides were applied with a tunnel air-assisted sprayer at the maximum dose/ha recommended on the product label. Results demonstrated the efficacy of insecticide application in reducing the population densities of leafhoppers but also their detrimental effects on predatory mites. In a number of case studies, leaf removal reduced leafhopper and predatory mite densities. In one vineyard, phytophagous mite populations increased some weeks after leaf removal and insecticide application, highlighting the need to carefully consider the potential impact of vineyard management practices on non-target arthropods in the IPM framework.

Carbon isotope discrimination (so-called δ<sup>13</sup>C) measured on grape juice is an accessible tool to monitor vine water status in production conditions

Assessment of vine water status is needed to understand the effect of environmental factors and management practices on dry-farmed and irrigated vineyards. Among plant-based indicators, carbon isotope discrimination (δ13C) is easily accessible, reliable, and inexpensive. As it provides a post-hoc assessment of vine water status during the berry ripening period, it can be useful for assessing the results of vineyard management practices during the season, and to map water status in the vineyard to aid in future precision management. Possible applications and limitations of this technique for practical vineyard management are discussed in this article.

Effect of Applied Shading During Fruit Ripening on Tannin Structure-Activity Relationships of Grape Skin Extracts.

Historically, the effect of wine grape shading on flavonoids have investigated the impact of light incidence on proanthocyanidin (PA), flavonol, or anthocyanin concentration. In addition to concentration, the current experiment was designed to look at changes in proanthocyanidin composition, size and tannin activity through ripening. Tannin activity is a methodology for assessing the impact of structure and size on the affinity of tannin towards a hydrophobic surface and is considered to be a proxy for predicted astringency descriptive quality. In 2016 a shade cloth study was imposed on Cabernet Sauvignon on Mt. Veeder, within the larger Napa Valley viticultural area. A control, which was unshaded, and two treatments consisting of 40% and 80% shade were applied at the onset of veraison. Results showed significant differences in the composition and concentration of anthocyanins throughout ripening. Compositional differences in proanthocyanidin were also observed, where shaded treatments had a significantly higher proportion of galloylated subunits. The molecular mass of the extracted tannin was significantly lower in the unshaded control than in the 80% shade treatment. These factors led to a lower measured tannin activity in extracts from exposed fruit. This work suggests that manipulation of canopy architecture, such as artificial shading, leads to changes in berry pigmentation, tannin composition and activity. These results show that astringency and mouthfeel characteristics of a wine may be altered by vineyard management practices. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Exploring the Influence of Diverse Viticultural Systems on Soil Health Metrics in the Northern Black Sea Region

The present study investigates the functionalecological status of typical light clay soils in vineyards in the southern region of Crimea, using both traditional (including fallow soils) and organic land-use systems. This analysis was carried out by examining agrochemical indicators, microbial respiratory activity, microbial biomass, and the ecological status of the microbial community. In organic vineyard soils, the mean substrate-induced respiration, microbial biomass carbon and the ratio of microbial biomass to organic carbon were found to be 2.8, 4.0, and 4.1 times higher, respectively, compared to conventional farm soils. On the contrary, the microbial metabolic coefficient was 1.4 times lower, signifying more favorable conditions for the functioning of the soil microbiota. The increased mobile sulfur content in organic vineyard soils (18.3 mg kg−1 vs. 8.0 mg kg−1 in traditional farms) and inadequate mobile phosphorus supply in some farms present potential risks. The suboptimal functional state of the microbiome in fallow soils previously under traditional plant protection necessitates comprehensive ecotoxicological analyses before development. Assessing the soil functional ecological status through an ecophysiological evaluation of the microbiome is vital for understanding ampelocenosis soils and making informed decisions on vineyard management practices.

Multispectral and Thermal Sensors Onboard UAVs for Heterogeneity in Merlot Vineyard Detection: Contribution to Zoning Maps

This work evaluated the ability of UAVs to detect field heterogeneity and their influences on vineyard development in Yepes (Spain). Under deficit irrigation, vine growth and yield variability are influenced by soil characteristics such as water holding capacity (WHC). Over two irrigation seasons (2021–2022), several vegetation indices (VIs) and parameters of vegetative growth and yield were evaluated in two field zones. Multispectral and thermal information was obtained from bare soils. The water availability showed annual differences; it was reduced by 49% in 2022 compared to 2021, suggesting that no significant differences were found for the parameters studied. The zone with higher WHC also had the higher vegetative growth and yield in 2021. This agreed with the significant differences among the VIs evaluated, especially the ratio vegetation index (RVI). Soil multispectral and thermal bands showed significant differences between zones in both years. This indicated that the soil spectral and thermal characteristics could provide more reliable information for zoning than vine vegetation itself, as they were less influenced by climatic conditions between years. Consequently, UAVs proved to be valuable for assessing spatial and temporal heterogeneity in the monitoring of vineyards. Soil spectral and thermal information will be essential for zoning applications due to its consistency across different years, enhancing vineyard management practices.

MICROBIAL DIVERSITY ON GRAPE SURFACE AND ITS RESEARCH STATUS

The microbial diversity of grape surfaces, also known as "microbial terroir", plays a critical role in winemaking and has applications in crop health and plant protection. Next-generation Sequencing (NGS) has revolutionized our understanding of grape surface microbiota by providing insights into the complex and dynamic microbial communities present on grape berries. NGS studies have confirmed the existence of distinct regional differences in grape surface microbial diversity, highlighting the concept of microbial terroir. This diversity is influenced by various natural and human factors, such as soil type, climate, vineyard management practices, and grapevine genetics, which contribute to the unique microbial terroir of each location. The application of NGS in studying microbial terroir has not only advanced our knowledge of grape and wine science, but also has implications in crop health and plant protection. The identification and characterization of microbial communities using NGS can help to develop sustainable and eco-friendly strategies for managing grapevine diseases and pests. The ongoing research in this area is expected to further expand our understanding of microbial terroir and its applications, contributing to the advancement of grape and wine science, and promoting environmentally responsible grape production practices. Based on bibliometric analysis, the current research focuses on the selection autochthonous S. cerevisiae, non-Saccharomyces and LAB. Plant growth-promoting bacteria considered as a new agroecological manageme. Interest in the role of natural microbial diversity in winemaking remains high.

Copper accumulation in five weed species commonly found in the understory vegetation of Mediterranean vineyards

Copper (Cu) concentration in agricultural soils often exceeds toxicological limits due to application of Cu-based fungicides. The potential of weeds for their use as functional cover plants in vineyard management and phytoremediation practices is little explored. We identified five weed species widely present in vineyards and assessed their Cu accumulation from eleven Mediterranean vineyards (soil Cu: 60–327 μg g−1) and two adjacent control sites (soil Cu: 15–30 μg g−1). Soils and plants were characterized by their physico-chemical properties and nutrient content. We applied multivariate techniques to analyze relationships between soil properties and leaf nutrient composition. Copper tolerance and accumulation traits were further tested in hydroponics using a series of CuSO4 concentrations (0.1–16 μM).Under field conditions, the highest Cu concentration in both roots and leaves were found in Lolium perenne (221 and 461 μg g−1, respectively), followed by Plantago lanceolata, Rumex obtusifolius and Taraxacum officinale (>100 μg g−1 Cu in leaves). Only one species, Trifolium repens, did not accumulate remarkable Cu concentrations. Overall, and as revealed by the multivariate analyses, leaf Cu concentration was driven by soil Cu content, soil texture, organic matter, nitrogen, and Cu uptake into roots. However, functional regression analysis and controlled experiments suggested that Cu might be additionally absorbed from the deposits on the leaf surface related to the Cu-fungicide treatments and soil dust. Our study highlights the importance of intra-specific variability in Cu accumulation among weed species in Cu-contaminated agricultural soils. Further validation of these findings under controlled conditions could provide essential insights for optimizing management and remediation strategies.

Life history traits of spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) when feeding on grapevines and tree of heaven.

The invasive planthopper, spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula (White) (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae), feeds on a broad range of plants including species of economic importance such as grape. Although SLF feeds on wild and cultivated grape, the effect of grapevines on the insect's life history traits is unknown. This study examined the effect of cultivated Concord grapevines (Vitis labrusca) and the insect's preferred host tree of heaven (TOH), Ailanthus altissima, on SLF development, survival, reproduction, and body mass. Newly emerged nymphs were allowed to feed on either TOH, Concord grapevines or a mixed diet of Concord grapevines plus TOH through adulthood until death. Development, mortality, and oviposition of paired adults were tracked daily to calculate the SLF rate of development, survival, and reproduction among treatments. When feeding exclusively on Concord grapevines, SLF was able to develop and reproduce but had higher mortality, slower development, and produced fewer eggs. SLF fed on the mixed diet of grapevines plus TOH exhibited faster nymphal development, laid more eggs, and had higher body mass compared with those fed only on grape or TOH. SLF had greater survival when fed on either the mixed diet or on TOH alone. We conclude that Concord grapevines are a poor-quality host for SLF, but when combined with TOH, SLF fitness increases above that of feeding on TOH alone. This study supports the elimination of TOH as a part of SLF vineyard management practices.

How terroir shapes aromatic typicity in grapes and wines (Part II)

Over the past decades, great progress has been accomplished in the understanding of the molecular basis of aromas in grapes and wines. These aromas depend on the grapevine variety, but also on environmental factors involved in the so-called « terroir » effect. In the first part of this review, it was shown how the terroir effect can be decomposed in measurable climate and soil parameters, namely air temperature, radiation, nitrogen and water status. Their impact on aromas and wine typicity is well documented in the scientific literature. In the second part of this review, examples are provided about the terroir effect for three major red varieties (Merlot, Cabernet-Sauvignon and Syrah) and two white varieties (Sauvignon blanc and Riesling). How wine aromas can be optimized through vineyard management practices is also discussed.

Quantification of Intra- vs. Inter-Row Leaching of Major Plant Nutrients in Sloping Vineyard Soils

Nutrient leaching from agricultural soils presents an economic loss for farmers and can degrade the quality of the surrounding environment. Thus, leachates from 18 in situ wick lysimeters, installed at 40 cm soil depth at the vineyard hilltop, backslope, and footslope intra- and inter-row area (SUPREHILL Critical Zone Observatory, Croatia) were collected monthly over two years and analyzed for major plant nutrient ions. Our objectives were to quantify nutrient losses via leaching from the hilltop towards the backslope and to the footslope, and to compare leaching from vine plant rows (intra-row) with grassed areas between vine rows (inter-row). We found that the concentrations of nitrate, orthophosphate, and potassium were significantly higher in leachates collected at the footslope as compared to the hilltop and backslope only at intra- and not at inter-row positions, while ammonium was independent of the slope and row positions. The vineyard intra-row is identified as the probable spatial origin of nutrient leaching along the slope, thus confirming spatially different contributions of overall hillslope to major plant nutrients leaching. The experimental field scheme used in this study, which separately analyses vineyard intra- and inter-row, was confirmed to be an adequate approach for optimizing vineyard management practices.

Risk Assessment and Limiting Soil Factors for Vine Production—Cu and Zn Contents in Vineyard Soils in Galicia (Rías Baixas D.O.)

Characteristics of vineyard soils and management practices can be assessed to determine the soil trend evolution, risks, and limits of soils for vine production through soil factors and foliar diagnosis. This study was made with soils from a vineyard divided into two plots belonging to the Rías Baixas D.O. The vineyard soils were sampled and characterized for three years. The total and available Cu and Zn contents and the physicochemical characteristics of the soils were determined annually and every four months, respectively. The main objective was to assess edaphic properties, phytosanitary treatments, fertilization, and tillage applied to indicate the quality of the vineyard soils. The soils presented certain limitations associated with mechanization, trafficability, and ease of tillage for cultivation. The soils showed a sandy loam texture, which makes the application of compost necessary to improve water retention and cation exchange capacity. Phytosanitary treatments and fungicides caused phytotoxic contents of Cu and Zn in the soils without being detrimental to the vines. In conclusion, the edaphic factors and foliar analysis were adequate to evaluate the condition of the soils and vines and to establish the necessary measures to improve the edaphic conditions of the vineyard soils to improve plant production.