Viticulture Production Research Articles

Modelling Nitrate Formation and Movement in Vineyard Soils – A Contribution to a More Sustainable Viticulture

Ecologically sound production is a catchword used in nearly all viticulture production areas. Besides the pesticides inputs which are unavoidable specific attention is directed to nitrates which can pollute ground water reserves and may have some adverse effects to humans after consumption. There are two main sources for nitrate in vineyard soils: a) mineralization of humic compounds from the soil and b) nitrogen fertilization. In the latter case the inputs can be controlled via balance sheets, which are obligatory in Germany for instance. During a six years period the mineralization process of slowly decomposable organic matter in vineyard soils was evaluated. 
 As a basis STANFORDs equations were used to describe that process but could finally reduced to a zero order equation. These findings were combined with different sub-models from soil science: heat transfer and water movement. Input values are very simple to determine: global irradiation, soil texture (sand, silt, clay) and wet digested organic matter (WALKLEY-BLACK). The compiled model is deterministic. Therefore it is transferable to other, unknown sites. The nitrate dynamic in soils can be followed up with one starting value which under German conditions is determined after harvest or in early springtime: the calculation includes the soils water content, the nitrate concentrations, possibly nitrate losses, and the NO3-content at the point of planned fertilization. Normally the mineral fertilizer input can be reduced without endangering yield and quality of grapevines. The model is now used as a tool for the extension service. On the other hand it is a powerful proof that viticulture, which is mostly carried out in vulnerable land sites, can save the environment for future generations.

FRUIT GROWING AND VITICULTURE FROM THE STANDPOINT OF FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF SERBIA

The aim of the study was to analyze trends of intensivity of fruit growing and viticulture production in Serbia considered to be of major importance in agricultural production. Yield and production data in fruit and viticulture growing were analyzed for the period 1970-2005. Positive agri-policy measures and systemic solutions at the Republic level may contribute to the spread of biodiversity of the productions (including processing capacities). Thus Serbia would rank high and may be expected to play the leading role in the production, processing and export of fruit and grapes both in the Balkans and Europe.

Evaluation of precision farming with regard to horticulture

The global positioning system was made available for public use, which made it possible' to apply a new management tool in agriculture. Precision farming gives much more information on plant-growing than former methods, which makes it possible to use technologies more suitable for micro-sites. It is supposed that more profitable production can be realised with its aid and the strain on the environment can be reduced, not to mention other economic advantages.
 The study makes economic conclusions about the method more and more widely used in plant production taking the yield mapping of Józsefmajor Experimental Farm as a basis and starts ideas about its possible application in arable land olericulture, viticulture and fruit production.
 These issues are important because precision farming has existed in glass-culture for a long time from another perspective, which should be spread to open ground horticultural enterprises that are labour and asset intensive, qualitative farming forms with great plantation value.