Pruning and Fertilization Impact on Leaf-Mineral Composition in High-Altitude Cultivation of Grapevines (Vitis Vinifera L.)

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impact of various plant nutrition applications and two pruning levels on the leaf mineral composition of grapevines (Vitis vinifera L. cv. 'Ercis Uzumu') cultivated under high-altitude conditions. The experiment, employing a randomized block experimental design with three replicates, includes a control group, and vines pruned to 30 or 40 buds, fertilized with poultry manure (PM), poultry manure + inorganic foliar fertilizer (PM + IFF), or poultry manure + organic foliar fertilizer (PM + OFF). Pruning significantly influences leaf mineral content, particularly phosphorus (P < 0.01), manganese (P < 0.05), and nickel levels (P < 0.05). Furthermore, fertilizer applications exhibit significant effects on phosphorous, magnesium, copper, iron, sodium, cadmium, chrome, and nickel levels (P < 0.01), with organic plant nutrition prominently enhancing leaf mineral content. Additionally, observations reveal higher ratios of P, K, Ca, and Mg in the 30 bud pruning per vine applications, as well as similar trends in micro-elements (Zn, Mn, and Cu) except for Fe. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing grapevine cultivation practices at high altitudes.