National Wine and Grape Industry Centre
Seasonal Impacts on Productivity & Grape Composition
MODELS to predict climatic events affecting grape development and strategies to increase yield through efficient use of vine nutrients are among benefits expected from this project. Overall it will lead to move consistent grape production throughout Australia.
The project will examine physiological stresses that influence yield and berry composition over several seasons. The research team will focus on the role of nutrients and assimilates on root dynamics and yield. It will also study the impacts of heat stress on berry composition. Research into the way nutrients and assimilates are transported around the vine and to the bunch will underpin both these approaches.
Other key outcomes will include:
- Improved knowledge of the impacts of environmental stresses on bunch development and berry sugar accumulation
- Development of strategies to help growers better manage the impact of heat stress on grape bunches.
Field research will be conducted in the Riverina and Hunter Valley growing region in NSW. This will be complemented by controlled growth chamber experiments at the NWGIC.