Nutritional status differentially affect yield and must composition of hybrids and V. vinifera varieties established under cold climate conditions

Abstract

Nova Scotia is characterized by cold climate and acidic soils and high organic matter for viticultural development. There is little scientific information available about the nutritional management of grapevine varieties cultivated under cold climate conditions even in Nova Scotia. This study carried out in three seasons aimed to find correlations between tissue nutrients with yield and must composition in order to provide better nutritional management for a given variety. The yield of "L'Acadie" variety was correlated with B, K and Mg. In this variety, Ca to Mg ratio could be an interesting indicator of yield. The yield of "New York Muscat" variety was correlated with Zn, while N, P and K was related to bunch weight and weight of berries. Interspecific hybrids presented lower accumulation of B in their tissues than V. vinifera varieties. Zn and Fe were found as determinant micronutrients in "Chardonnay" variety. "Riesling" variety accumulated high levels of K in their tissues even over the optimal values recommended for grapevines. K to Ca ratio could be an important indicator of yield in "Pinot Noir" variety. A strong correlation between the petiole and blade analysis was found in macro and micro-nutrients. These results may contribute to improve the nutritional management of grapevines grown under cold climate conditions, mostly in Nova Scotia.