Project number
FShip Water 1
Project leader
Poblete-Echeverría, C
Institution
South African Grape and Wine Research Institute, Department of Viticulture and Oenology, Stellenbosch University
Start date
2019
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Objectives and Rationale
The objective of this project was to implement a research site where multiple technologies were integrated and tested for monitoring the response of vines to water deficit, considering spatial and temporal variability.
Methods
To collect relevant data from the selected experimental vineyard block, five monitoring units were established: Unit1 -Micrometeorological, Unit2 – Meso and microclimate, Unit3 in-vine monitoring, Unit4 – In-soil monitoring and Unit5 – Remote sensing. These units were designed and planned to consider the most important factors of variability.
Key Results
All monitoring units proposed were successfully established and data were collected during two consecutive growing seasons. With the datasets collected and the subsequent analysis, it was possible to implement a water stress classification of the block. The classes presented a clear effect of the water stress with significant differences.
Key Conclusion of Discussion
The statistical analysis of the classification proposed, indicated significant differences in fruit and wine quality parameters among the water stress classes. The vines under class 1 (water-stressed vines) presented 50 % lower values of yield. Overall, 30% variation in chemical compounds were seen with water-stressed plants being generally higher.
Take Home message for Industry
We present solid evidence about the effects of water stress on fruit and wine quality parameters. Also, we demonstrate the potential use of innovative technological tools for monitoring water stress considering spatial and temporal variability. Improvements in the methodologies proposed in this study are the basis for the new FShip3 project.