Affiliation:
1. School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University , 2710 Crimson Way, Richland, WA 99354 , USA
2. Department of Viticulture and Enology, Washington State University Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center , Prosser, WA 99354 , USA
Abstract
Abstract
Aims
Incorporating biofertilizers, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AM) fungal inoculants, into vineyard management practices may enhance vine growth and reduce environmental impact. Here, we evaluate the effects of commercially available and local AM fungal inoculants on the growth, root colonization, and nutrient uptake of wine grapes (Vitis vinifera) when planted in a field soil substrate.
Methods and results
In a greenhouse experiment, young wine grapes were planted in a field soil substrate and inoculated with one of three commercially available mycorrhizal inoculant products, or one of two locally collected whole soil inoculants. After 4 months of growth, inoculated vines showed no differences in plant biomass, colonization of roots by AM fungi, or foliar macronutrient concentrations compared to uninoculated field soil substrate. However, vines grown with local inoculants had greater shoot biomass than vines grown with mycorrhizal inoculant products.
Conclusions
Although effects from inoculations with AM fungi varied by inoculant type and source, inoculations may not improve young vine performance in field soils with a resident microbial community.
Funder
Washington State University
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)