Strategies of root systems belonging to ten rootstocks grafted on Vitis vinífera cv. Loureiro, in the sub region of Cávado, and some relations between the above and subterranean parts of vine

Abstract

This study aimed to determine and compare the vertical root system distribution of the regional vine cultivar Loureiro, once grafted on ten different rootstocks. The field work was conducted on an antrosoil derived schist of the Portuguese Northwest region of Cavado, within the officially limited area of Vinhos Verdes.

The Noordwijk et al (2000) root map method was followed over 60 deep trenches, 20 by replication and 2 trenches by treatment and replication.According to this methoid 110 maps have been made in their respective vertical profiles. A special attention was devoted to roots with a diameter less or equal to 2,0mm. The results indicate deeper root systems of the following rootstocks combinations: Corriola, 125 AA, SO4, 161-49C, 99 R and 5BB. As a complement, the leaf water potential or predawn of five combinations was evaluated. The best results were  obtained by 161-49 C  and 196-17 CL followed  by SO4. These results show us the behavior or strategies of each type of rootstock in a concrete situation.