Field trial testing mycorrhizal inoculation and phosphorus effects on Merlot grapevine growth in Washington.
This BIOAg progress report describes a field experiment at Washington State University Tri-Cities evaluating whether arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) improve grapevine growth and nutrient uptake under contrasting phosphorus (P) conditions. The study focuses on Merlot (clone 4), including both self-rooted and grafted (1103P rootstock) vines, in a randomized complete block design with four treatments: +AMF+P, +AMF–P, –AMF–P, and –AMF+P.
A total of 40 plots (280 plants) were established in summer 2020, with AMF inoculum (MycoBloom) applied to treatment plots and heat-killed inoculum used in controls. Phosphorus was applied at regionally recommended rates to +P plots. Baseline soil nutrients were measured prior to treatment, and ongoing measurements include vine growth, chlorophyll content, leaf and soil nutrients, and root colonization by AMF.
COVID-related delays shifted planting to late summer 2020 and postponed destructive sampling. The project provides graduate and undergraduate research training and supports development of biologically based nutrient management strategies for Washington vineyards.
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Authors
Cheeke, T., Moyer, M., Clark, R., Blance, M., Burke, I., and Roalson, E.
Related Project
Year Published
2020
Areas of Focus
Agricultural Practices and Climate & Environment
Topics
Crops, Natural Resources, Production Systems, and Soils & Fertility
