Grapevine fertilizationaffects the growth and development of shrubs, but above all, the abundance of fruiting. Fertilization should be adapted to the nutritional needs of the vines and preferably based on a chemical analysis of the soil. Find outhow to fertilize the grapevinewhat are the best it grew and bore profusely!
When and with what to fertilize the grapevine?
Fig. pixabay.com/depositphotos.com
When to fertilize the grapevine?
The first fertilization of the vines is done before planting the bushes , because the soil should be properly prepared for their cultivation. For the next two years, there is no need for intensive fertilization of the vines, onlyin the third year of cultivation should check the level of nutrients in the soiland fertilize fruit-bearing vines.
The basis for determining the need to use appropriate fertilizers in viticultureshould be the results of chemical analysis of the soil, best carried out after fruit harvesting at the Regional Chemical and Agricultural Station. Basic tests will determine the content of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and the pH (acidity) of the soil.
If we do not want to submit the soil for testing, we should at least do a soil pH test. We can do it ourselves using any pH meter. Such a test will determine whether it is necessary to limit the soil to deacidify it.The grapevine grows and bears fruit in slightly acidic or neutral soils (pH 6.5 - 7.2) If the soil is too acidic, we must perform a liming treatment.
Dates for fertilizing grapevines
Recommended3 dates for fertilizing the grapevines :
- at the beginning of the season, i.e. in spring, after the discovery of winter shrub protection
- two weeks before expected flowering
- in autumn, after harvesting the fruit
Vine limingcan be performed on two dates:
- in spring, when the surface layer of the soil is already thawed, before the first leaves appear
- in autumn, from the end of October to the first half of November, after the leaves fall
Remember!
Liming must not be combined with the application of other fertilizers. Between the application of fertilizers and liming, there should be at least 3 weeks of delay. It is also not allowed to liming immediately after applying manure (then liming can only be done in the next year).
What to fertilize the grapevine with?
In amateur viticulture, it is worth reaching for natural fertilizersFirst of all, organic fertilizers fully satisfy the nutritional needs of the grapevine and at the same time maintain the proper structure of the soil and support the activity of the natural bacterial flora. The annual use of manure in the amount of about 5 kg / m² allows for the proper development of grapevines.
In addition to cattle manure, you can also use sheep manure, which usually has a higher nutrient content, which allows it to be used in lower doses. Manure can also be replaced with compost. If we do not have access to these natural fertilizers, we can reach for granulated manure, available in most garden stores.
We also use mineral fertilizers in viticulture. One of themineral nitrogen fertilizers useful in viticulture ism.in urea, ammonium nitrate or calcium nitrate. When reaching for nitrogen fertilizers, however, remember to exercise moderation, because the excess of nitrogen means that the vine does not bear fruit or the fruiting is very weak (the lush development of shoots and leaves occurs at the expense of fruit).
Among the potassium fertilizers useful in viticulture, a good example will be potassium sulphate, which is worth using in autumn, digging it deeply with the soil. Additionally, potassium sulphate will significantly acidify the substrate (do not use it, therefore, if the soil had to be limed earlier).
Fertilization of vines with phosphorusis made with triple superphosphate, which can be used both in autumn and spring. On the other hand,magnesium fertilization is usually used in the cultivation of vines on light soils , sandy or on heavy soils, if we previously applied too much calcium. If you want to increase the magnesium content in the soil, you can use magnesium nitrate.
Fertilizers for grapevines
Fig. Target
For the fertilization of grapevines, you can use ready-made multi-component fertilizers , such as Azofoska or a ready-made fertilizer mixture for grapevines, which we use in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging (in the case of Azofoska, the dose is 50g / m²). The ready-made mixtures, great for amateur garden cultivation, will prove to be a rich granular Target fertilizer for grapevines with micronutrients, which is sprinkled with 100g per bush.
For liming, we can use ground dolomite, which should be used in doses of 0.8-2.1 kg per 10 m2. The amount depends on the pH and soil type as well as its magnesium content.
Recommended vine fertilizers , both mineral and organic, can be ordered in the store of our guide. To see the offer, please click the button below: -)
"border=0
MSc Eng. Joanna Białowąs
