A new measurement model to estimate the intensity of acrotony on the latent buds of grapevine canes (Vitis vinifera L.)

Abstract

In warm regions, such as in southern Greece, the climate change can lead to prolonged dormancy as well as to problems in bud dormancy (delay in breaking time, reduce the rate of budbreak, intensity of the phenomenon of acrotony, grapevine bud fall, disorders in bloom with intense blossom dropping, etc.), with a significant impact on the production of the vines. In these areas, it is necessary to apply chemical substances in order to break the dormancy and advance budbreak, especially when it comes to new table grape varieties, most of which are seedless. Another phenomenon which is observed on grapevines and is directly associated with budbreak is acrotony, where the apical buds of the cane break first compared to the middle and basal ones. Acrotony can constitute a problem because it can cause irregular grape ripening, different timing of various activities in the vineyard, which brings about higher cultivation costs. In this research, a new method to measure and evaluate the acrotony and its intensity on the latent buds of grapevine canes was described. The results of two chemical substances applied on table grape variety 'Prime'® in order to advance budbreak were presented.