Managing local field variability in the framework of precision viticulture

Abstract

Managing grapevines according to the practices of Precision Agriculture (PA), may prove to be an asset in the hands of the modern grape growers. Precision Viticulture (PV), namely the application of PA in viticulture has gained significant attention from the grape growers and scientist in the recent decades enhanced by the emergence and availability of digital technologies dedicated to farming applications.

In this work, the outcomes of applying PV practices and digital technologies in a commercial vineyard in the region of Attica in Greece are presented from a study conducted in the framework of “AGROSYS” project. The experimental area was 3.5 ha, a subsection of a 26 ha vineyard grown with Savvatiano (Vitis vinifera L.) a traditional Greek variety. The apparent soil electrical conductivity was initially mapped and a digital elevation model was prepared utilizing measurements from an RTK-GNSS. The soil and terrain properties were analysed using Fuzzy clustering algorithm and management zones were created based on which the experimental plots were set up. Three representative sample vines were selected in each plot and were measured for their physiological and phenotypical status utilizing both traditional sampling and analysis and digital sensing technologies.

Preliminary results showed statistically significant differences of key physiological and quality parameters of vines and grapes among the different management zones. This finding indicates the significance and potential benefits of managing local field variability in commercial vineyards.