VR O43-43: A Lime-Susceptible Rootstock

Abstract

Vitis vinifera L. cv. Cabernet Sauvignon clone R5 was grafted onto V. vinifera x Muscadinia rotundifolia Small rootstock VR O43-43 and grown in pots of a noncalcareous and a calcareous soil in order to examine the lime susceptibility/resistance of this rootstock. Chlorosis occurrence and mineral element composition of young leaves were recorded at fruit set and veraison, while grape production and quality were measured at harvest. The rootstock induced severe chlorosis symptoms to the plants growing on the calcareous soil. Chlorotic leaves had higher macronutrient levels than green leaves and leaf iron concentration did not correlate with chlorosis occurrence. At harvest, the calcareous soil strongly deceased grape yield, cluster and berry size, titratable acidity, and tartaric acid, while soluble solids, pH, and juice color increased.