New research from Washington State University could help grape growers improve nutrient use efficiency and develop a more accurate fertilizer budget, helping ensure high fruit quality, vineyard productivity and long-term economic and environmental sustainability.
The findings, published in the American Journal of Enology and Viticulture, show that leaf fall, dormant cane removal and environmental conditions can significantly affect nutrient loss in grapevines.
"The study highlights the importance of taking a more holistic view of vineyard nutrient management," said lead author Nataliya Shcherbatyuk, a research associate in WSU's Department of Horticulture.
"While growers routinely account for nutrients removed through harvested fruit, there are other pathways that receive much less attention despite their potential contribution to annual nutrient losses. This research is about understanding how vineyard systems function and how we can use that knowledge to make more informed management decisions."
Where nutrient losses add up
Part of the High Resolution Vineyard Nutrient Management Project, the study analyzed nutrient loss data on Syrah, Sauvignon blanc and Chardonnay wine grape cultivars, as well as Concord juice grapes. The samples came from irrigated vineyards in Eastern Washington.
The scientists found that nutrient loss is heavily dependent on crop yield. Nutrients such as potassium and nitrogen are lost in the largest quantities through harvested grapes, while leaf fall accounted for significant calcium and nitrogen losses.
"In some cases, nutrient losses through leaves were much larger than many growers might expect," Shcherbatyuk said.
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