Somatic embryogenesis and polyploidy in grapevine: morphological shoot and leaf traits variations

Nel corso del 2009, in alcuni vigneti allevati ad alberata in provincia di Caserta (Italia), è stata avviata una ricerca per valutare la variabilità genetica della popolazione del vitigno ‘Asprinio’, la condizione sanitaria delle piante e le caratteristiche del vino sia rispetto alla forma di allevamento (alberata tradizionale e controspalliera) che all’altezza della fascia produttiva.

Climate change strongly affects the wine-growing sector which increasingly requires in situ adaptation strategies aimed at preserving the sustainability of production. Investigating microclimate becomes crucial in comprehending environmental pressures on plants. The microclimatic investigation conducted in the Orvieto PDO (central Italy) allowed us to highlight the climatic dynamics occurring in the last 25 years and the frequency and intensity of abiotic stresses. Two management strategies for the canopy were identified: early defoliation (ELR) and foliar application of Basalt Flour ® (FB) compared to the ordinary management (C) of the company (bud selection and topping). The effects on plant vigour indices (LAI), resource allocation in terms of carbon stored in the above-ground organs of the vine, and the microclimate of the canopy and the berry were evaluated. In particular, microclimate was evaluated through a network of sensors connected wirelessly (Wireless Sensor Network), dedicated to collecting information on temperature and humidity in the canopy and clusters.

Grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae Fitch) is a major insect pest that has had devastating effects in grape-growing regions worldwide. As a result, using phylloxera-resistant rootstocks is a key component of modern vineyard management.

The historic Tokaj Wine Region in northeast Hungary, a UNESCO World Heritage region since 2002, encompasses 5,500 ha vineyards. Produced from “noble rot” grapes, Tokaji Aszú is known as one of the oldest botrytized wines all over the world. Special microclimatic conditions (due to Bodrog and Tisza rivers, Indian summer), soil conditions (clay, loess on volcanic bedrock) and grape

The inherent variability of Nature poses challenges for researchers to draw clear conclusions from field experiments. Identifying and assessing adaptations to climate change requires agronomic field trials.