Speakers - AFHWC2025

Abstract

Soil management is important in mitigating the effects of abiotic stress in vineyards. In addition, optimizing the composting method in closed-loop chains can effectively address the problem of pruning residues and grape marc in viticultural areas. This trial was created to improve the quality of berries and corroborate grapevine against abiotic stress such as water stress.  To this aim, a new by-product was applied as a soil improver: ZeoWine (30 t/ha), deriving from the process of composting industrial wine and zeolite. In two companies, comparative treatments were applied (i.e., ZeoWine, Zeolite, Compost, and Control). Single-leaf gas exchange, midday leaf water potential, and chlorophyll fluorescence were measured. Moreover, the parameters of technological and phenolic maturity, anthocyanin fractionation, and quercetin content in the grapes were analyzed.  The new by-product showed less negative water potential, higher photosynthesis, and lower leaf temperature. Finally, the interaction of the beneficial results of ZeoWine was highlighted by the reduction of quercetin in grapes and the closure of the production cycle of waste material from the viticultural supply chain.