1、Foliar Fertilization of Grapevines: What We Know and Don’t Know

Caution is warranted when considering the myriad of foliar products that are being marketed to you as grape growers, and this is because we still have much to learn about how and when foliar-applied nutrients will be effective.

2、CDFA

Foliar sprays containing phosphorus (P) have minimal impact on ‘Pinot Noir’ growth and P status, mycorrhizal colonization, and fruit quality. HortScience 45, 815-821.

3、Applying Fertilizer to Vineyards After Harvest

After harvest, grapevines need to begin shutting down (senescing) in preparation for the winter. They stop growing, harden off green tissue, and move their energy and nutrients from the canopy down to the roots for winter storage.

4、Grapes Fertilizer Management

Foliar fertilization can help us address short term deficiencies very quickly. However, it normally cannot substitute other types of fertilization. Soil applications generally have more lasting effects. However, these are just common patterns that should not be followed without doing your research. Every field is different and has different needs.

Effects of Foliar Fertilization: a Review of Current Status and Future

Foliar fertilizer application after soil fertilization is an effective method to increase the contents of trace elements in crops and crop yield, and to improve the soil environment. However, the application of inorganic foliar fertilizer results in difficulties in nutrient absorption and migration in plants.

How to Fertilize Grape Plants

Proper fertilization is key to supporting the growth and productivity of grape plants. Without the right balance of nutrients, grapevines may struggle to develop strong roots, healthy foliage, and high-quality fruit.

Pre

Ca and Zn foliar application was also effective in preserving the levels of trans-resveratrol and phenolic acids in grape. The higher phenolic compounds in Ca + Zn-treated grapes was accompanied with lower activity of polyphenol oxidase, and lower incidence of fungal decay.

FOLIAR FERTILIZATION IN VINEYARD MINERAL NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

After harvest, liberal rates of foliar applied boron increases boron in buds, which promotes normal fruit set the following year. In the early days of grapevine foliar fertilization, the micronutrients zinc and boron were the primary focus.

Foliar Fertilization of Grapevines: What We Know & Don’t Know

I was recently asked to give a talk about foliar fertilization in vineyards by the Willamette Valley Winegrowers Group and wanted to share some of that information here.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

Post-harvest fertilization before leaf fall might be necessary based on results from petiole sample and soil sample analysis to ensure that adequate nutrient reserves are already in the plant the following spring.

Whether foliar fertilization is needed after grape harvest depends on specific circumstances. Below, I will analyze this question in detail from three aspects: the growth cycle of grapes, the importance of fertilization, and the role of foliar fertilizers. This will help you understand whether foliar fertilization is necessary after grape harvest.

I. The Growth Cycle of Grapes

The life cycle of grapevines can be divided into several stages: budburst, vegetative growth, flowering, and fruiting. Nutrient requirements vary at different stages.

1. Budburst Stage: During this phase, root growth and development are prioritized. Applying foliar fertilizers can supplement essential nutrients, promote root development, and establish a foundation for subsequent growth.
2. Vegetative Growth Stage: As the plant rapidly expands, foliar fertilization provides ample nutrients to support photosynthesis, sugar synthesis, and improved fruit quality and yield.
3. Flowering Stage: Flower bud differentiation and pollination demand high nutrients. Spraying phosphorus and potassium fertilizers via leaves enhances flower bud development, pollination success, and fruit set.
4. Fruiting Stage: Post-harvest, spraying trace elements and vitamins can elevate fruit quality and extend shelf life.

II. The Importance of Fertilization

1. Nutrient Supplementation: Grapes require increasing nutrients, especially during fruiting. Foliar fertilizers provide essential elements to meet rapid growth demands.
2. Growth Promotion: Foliar applications deliver nutrients directly to leaves and stems, boosting growth and photosynthetic efficiency—critical for yield and quality.
3. Stress Resistance: Proper fertilization strengthens disease resistance, reduces pest susceptibility, and improves overall plant health.

III. The Role of Grape Foliar Fertilizers

1. Nutrient Replenishment: Foliar fertilizers contain vital nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are absorbed through leaves to support growth.
2. Growth Regulation: Certain components (e.g., microelements) regulate plant processes, such as enhancing photosynthesis and sugar accumulation, which improve fruit taste and quality.
3. Quality Enhancement: Spraying trace elements and vitamins increases antioxidant capacity and nutritional value, resulting in more flavorful grapes.
4. Resource Efficiency: Foliar application is a high-efficiency method. Compared to soil fertilization, it minimizes nutrient loss, prevents soil pollution, reduces labor, and improves absorption rates.

Whether to apply foliar fertilizer after harvest depends on the grape’s growth stage and needs. During budburst and vegetative growth, foliar fertilization supports nutrient uptake and development. In the fruiting stage, trace elements and vitamins can elevate quality and yield. Thus, post-harvest foliar fertilization should be decided based on specific contextual factors.