Root Distribution of Different Grapevine Rootstocks on a Relatively Saline Soil

Abstract

Distribution of roots of vines of the grape cultivar Chenin blanc grafted onto 10 different rootstocks of different genetic origins on a relatively saline, sandy clay loam with a varying electrical resistance was investigated. Root distribution was similar for all cultivars in that the majority of roots were found in the shallower soil layers (less than600 mm), where electrical resistance was relatively high. Restriction of root growth in the deeper soil layers appeared to enhance growth of the finer roots in particular, closer to the soil surface. Root number varied with the rootstock, the highest root numbers being found with 216/3 Castel and 1103 Paulsen and the lowest with US 16-13-23 and Ramsey. Above-ground growth and root density of the rootstocks were found to be in balance.