Evaluation of grape (Vitis Vinifera L.) variety effect on relative leaf chlorophyll level and soil water

Abstract

This study evaluates the effect of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) variety on relative leaf chlorophyll level (RLCL) and soil water. The relatively new vineyard (established 2009) of American Farm School (AFS) Thessaloniki, Greece was developed and managed under the SO.CR.A.T.E.E.SO (Soil-Crop-Atmosphere and Technology: Educational & Evaluation Systems) approach. Therefore a set of properties on the entire soil-crop-atmosphere" continuum were measured, such as Apparent Soil Electrical Conductivity (EC), Relative Air Humidity (RH%). Soil Volumetric Water Content (VWC %). Relative Leaf Chlorophyll Level (RLCL) and Actual Leaf Chlorophyll Level (ALCL). The results showed that there was a significant effect of variety on the RECL but not on the soil water content. Also a very strong regression equation was developed that allows the prediction of ALCL based on non-destructive measurements of RLCL. The findings of this study can be used for better nutrient and irrigation management in the next growing season that grapes will be harvested for the first time.