Water needs of grapevines in Hawke’s Bay Mark Krasnow, Ph.D. Thoughtful Viticulture Ltd.
Irrigation optimization research programme in Hawke’s Bay Merlot- To purposely induce mild water stress after set to reduce yield and increase quality. Chardonnay- Vines only brought to the edge of stress to conserve water, but not lose yield
December October to Mid-November Mid-April February and mid-November to December to mid-April to June January
Merlot vineyard #1 15/1/18
Merlot vineyard #2 30/12/17
Merlot vineyard #3 4/3/18
Chardonnay vineyard #1 10/12/17
Chardonnay vineyard #2 31/12/17
A sudden interruption in water availability can have mild to catastrophic consequences to vineyards depending on the timing of the interruption, the vine’s canopy size, the weather during the interruption, and the length of the drought.
Effects of sudden water restriction on grapevines
Early effects Stomatal closure -Reduced/stopped photosynthesis. Reserves depleted. Leaf yellowing -Reduced photosynthesis, even if water becomes available. Reserves depleted Leaf senescence -No photosynthesis possible. Reserves depleted and no new reserves made. Late effects
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