Given the varying nature of our foothill soil and the unique combinations of rootstock and scions in vineyards, it is important to monitor vineyard mineral nutrients. Soil analysis is the first step for figuring out the physical and chemical properties of your soil. This can clue you in on any issues that you might end up seeing in your vines, such as problems with pH, salts, permeability, or imbalances that can affect plant nutrient absorption. However, for maintenance fertilizing routines, using tissue testing of plant material is more direct in determining potential deficiencies. In general, petiole sampling at bloom is the recommended way to determine vine nutritional needs. Sample the leaf petioles opposite flower clusters.
Nutrient Resources:
- California Fertilization Guidlines, UC Davis and CDFA-FREP
- Vineyard nutrient needs vary with rootstocks and soils, California Agriculture 2008
- List of select commercial laboratories in northern California
Boron:
- Fall foliar sprays prevent Boron deficiency symptoms in grapes, 2006 California Agriculture.
- Drip irrigation can effectively apply Boron to San Joaquin Valley vineyards, 2005. California Agriculture.
Zinc:
- Grapevine response to concentrate and to dilute application of two zinc compounds, 1978. American Journal of Enology and Viticulture.
Grapevine Nutrition Deficiencies
Grape Nutritional Deficiency Images courtesy of Pete Christensen.
