“`html
Biostimulants for Vine and Grape: Technical Guide by Phenology for Organic Viticulture
Organic viticulture in Europe faces significant challenges, from the reduction of permitted copper use according to EU Regulation, to the effects of climate change that advance viticultural phenology. Additionally, the market demands high-quality wines. Biostimulants emerge as a key solution, helping plants resist diseases and improve fruit quality. This not only keeps production within organic standards but also meets market expectations.
Why does the vine respond particularly well to biostimulants?
Vines have a deep root system but need adequate amounts of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, especially in the berries. Irregular fruit set can lead to significant production losses, while water stress in summer can advance ripening, positively or negatively affecting the outcome depending on conditions and management. Furthermore, the quality of the must, measured by parameters such as Brix, acidity, anthocyanins, and tannins, is highly influenced by nutrition and the use of biostimulants.
Ecoganic Program for Vine
| Phase | BBCH | Months (Spain) | Objective | Product | Dose L/ha | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bleeding / swollen | 01-07 | February-March | Activation, rooting | TERRA HUMID | 4 | Fertigation |
| Bud burst | 09-13 | March | Vigor of shoots, anticipate frosts | BOOST UNIVERSAL + NITROTECH 10 | 3+4 | Foliar |
| Development of shoots | 14-19 | March-April | Vegetative growth | BALANCE 7-7-7 | 5 | Foliar |
| Visible inflorescences | 53-57 | May | Pre-flowering, boron | MICRO PLUS + PHACE | 2+3 | Foliar |
| Full flowering | 60-65 | May-June | Fruit set, reduce shatter | CALCIUM 40% + BOOST UNIVERSAL | 4+2 | Foliar |
| Fruit set / pea | 71-73 | June | Berry setting, calcium | CALCIUM 40% + PHOSMAX 20 | 4+3 | Foliar |
| Cluster closure | 77-79 | July | Compactness, quality | K-FLOW 20 + FULVEX 25L | 4+3 | Foliar |
| Veraison | 81-83 | July-August | Anthocyanins, Brix, acidity | UNIVERSAL POWER + K-FLOW 20 | 2+4 | Foliar |
| Pre-harvest | 85-89 | August-October | Final quality of must | FULVEX 25L | 3 | Foliar |
Impact on wine quality
The use of biostimulants in the vine has been shown to increase production by up to 14% in kg/vine. Additionally, it improves Brix content at veraison by 8%, increasing potential alcohol degree or reducing the need for chaptalization. Red varieties such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Syrah show more intense anthocyanins and a more balanced total acidity, crucial in years with high temperatures. A reduction in shatter is also observed in problematic varieties.
Organic viticulture — the label that pays the most
Organic certification is increasingly demanded by wineries and denominations of origin such as Rioja, Priorat, and Ribera del Duero. Certification bodies such as CCPAE in Catalonia, CAAE in Andalusia, and CPAEN in Navarre ensure that methods are compatible with ecological principles. Organic grapes can reach a price that is 30% to 50% higher than conventional at origin, reflecting the added value of these cultivation methods.
Adaptation by wine region
In Rioja and Ribera del Duero, where continental conditions can bring late frosts, it is crucial to reinforce bud burst. In Penedès and Priorat, the Mediterranean climate and summer drought recommend a focus on pre-veraison. Rías Baixas, with its humid Atlantic climate, requires bioprotection strategies during flowering. In Languedoc, France, which shares similarities with Spanish Mediterranean areas, biostimulant programs can be equally effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do biostimulants reduce shatter in Garnacha and Tempranillo?
Yes, especially when products like CALCIUM 40% and BOOST UNIVERSAL are applied during the full flowering phase.
Can CALCIUM 40% be applied in drip fertigation?
It is not recommended, as its effectiveness is greater through foliar application.
When should the biostimulant be applied to improve the color of red grapes?
The best phase is during veraison, using products like UNIVERSAL POWER and K-FLOW 20.
Are they compatible with sulfur and copper phytosanitary programs?
Yes, biostimulants are designed to be compatible with these programs.
Does it work on table grapes as well as for winemaking?
Yes, biostimulants can be applied to both types of grapes to improve quality and resistance.
👉 Complete program for vine: https://ecoganic.eu/bioestimulantes-vid-uva/
“`
