Foliar application of natural reflective minerals enhances physiological performance and yield of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Chardonnay under Mediterranean climate stress
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Mediterranean viticulture faces increasing challenges from severe thermal and water stress induced by climate change, which threaten both yield and grape quality. This study evaluated the effectiveness of foliar applications of three natural reflective mineral products, zeolite (TZL), basalt powder (TPB), and kaolin (TK), as sustainable adaptation strategies for Vitis vinifera L. ‘Chardonnay’ cultivated under typical Mediterranean conditions. The experimental trials demonstrated that these mineral-based reflective films are effective agronomic tools for mitigating heat and drought stress. All treatments significantly increased yield and average bunch weight compared with the untreated control, reducing losses caused by berry dehydration. Among the tested materials, zeolite (TZL) achieved the highest bunch weight and superior physiological performance. Ecophysiological assessments confirmed that reflective treatments preserved photosynthetic function by reducing photoinhibition and improving both net photosynthesis (Pn) and water-use efficiency (WUE). While zeolite provided the best overall physiological and productive response, basalt powder produced grapes of the highest quality. Overall, the use of natural reflective minerals—particularly zeolite—emerges as an innovative and environmentally sustainable approach to optimizing vine energy and water balance, thereby maintaining high-quality grape production in Mediterranean regions increasingly affected by global warming.
Source: Vitis
Authors: Dattola, A., Gullo, G., Accardo, A., Zappia, R.
Institution: University of Reggio Calabria
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7129027073
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