CHANGES IN NUTRIENT CONTENT OF GRAPE LEAVES ACCORDING TO WEATHER CHANGES

Abstract

In our investigation grape leaf nutrient contents were compared in a three year study period. Leaf samples were analyzed in our certificated Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory (Faculty of Horticulture). Samples were taken in vineyards of the Southern Hungarian plain region, mainly Bács-Kiskun county. The level of the main nutrient elements tended to decrease from bloom to the completion of maturation, in each years. Decrease in phosphorus level was slight and continuous. Lack of nitrogen was not significant. Statistically significant differences occurred in 2012 according to magnesium level. Changes in the ratios of some main nutrients (N/K and K/Mg) were also shown.  Low level of potassium and phosphorus was observedprimarily in 2011 and 2012. Increase in potassium and phosphorus fertilization should be proposed. Lack of boron,iron and other observed micro-elements  was not typical in our study.