WW13/13 – P. Shange – ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij CFPA Canning Fruit Producers’ Assoc. Submit to: Wiehahn Victor PO Box 426 Paarl, 7620 Tel: +27 (0)21 872 1501 [email protected]DFPT Deciduous Fruit Producers’ Trust Submit to: Louise Liebenberg Suite 275, Postnet X5061 Stellenbosch, 7599 Tel: +27 (0)21 882 8470/1 [email protected]DFTS Dried Fruit Technical Services Submit to: Dappie Smit PO Box 426 Paarl, 7620 Tel: +27 (0)21 872 1501 [email protected]Winetech Submit to: Jan Booysen PO Box 528 Paarl, 7624 Tel: +27 (0)21 807 3324 [email protected]X Indicate (X) client(s) to whom this final report is submitted. Replace any of these with other relevant clients if required. FINAL REPORT PROGRAMME & PROJECT LEADER INFORMATION Programme leader Project leader Title, initials, surname Mr. A.R. Mulidzi Ms. P. Shange (Co-worker: Dr. W. J. Conradie) Present position Programme Manager: Soil and Water Science Division Researcher (Specialist Scientist) Address ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij Private Bag X 5026 Stellenbosch 7599 ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij Private Bag X 5026 Stellenbosch 7599 Tel. / Cell no. (021) 809 3070 (021) 809 3022 Fax (021) 809 3260 (021) 809 3260 E-mail [email protected][email protected]([email protected]) PROJECT INFORMATION Project number WW13/13 Project title Quantification of the effects of geology, soil and climate on wine style/ quality in Helderberg. Industry programme CFPA DFPT DFTS Winetech x Other Fruit kind(s) Wine grapes
were identified at the lower, as well as the higher shale/granite contact zone. The Sauvignon
blanc vineyards were situated at Eikendal (lower altitude = 232m) and Uva Mira (higher
altitude = 400m), with the Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards at Lushof (lower altitude = 227m)
and Cordoba (higher altitude = 288m). Within each vineyard experimental plots were
identified on shale-derived as well as granite-derived soil.
Soil pits were dug at each site and the soils were described visually and samples from each
horizon were collected and analysed for clay mineralogical composition, chemical and
physical parameters. Soil water content was monitored annually. Weather stations were
erected at three of the experimental vineyards (Cordoba, Lushof and Uva Mira). On account
of Eikendal being adjacent to Lushof, climatic conditions were assumed to be similar for
Lushof and Eikendal. The most important climatic parameters (rain, maximum and minimum
temperatures) were measured. Root distribution, vine water status, canopy density and
certain viticulture parameters were measured annually. Leaf blades, petioles and juice were
analyzed chemically. Experimental wines from each granite- and shale-derived site were also
prepared annually in duplicate and evaluated by an experienced panel of tasters.
For statistical purposes data from each of the five seasons were used as replicates.
Thereafter, analyses of variance were performed on all variables. Student’s t LSD values
were calculated at the 5 and 10 % levels to compare treatment means. Where data could not
be analyzed statistically, due to a smaller sample number per site, means were used to
compare between treatments.
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3. Results and discussion
State results obtained and list any benefits to the industry. Include a short discussion if applicable to your results. This final discussion must cover ALL accumulated results from the start of the project, but please limit it to essential
information.
Milestone Achievement
1. Identify experimental sites Objective completed in 2004/05. Sauvignon
blanc (2x) and Cabernet Sauvignon (2x)
vineyards were identified.
2. Soil samples, profile descriptions,
physical and chemical soil analysis and
root studies
Completed in 2005/06. All sites underlain by
fairly pure shale or granite. In general, shale-
derived had higher total K while granite-
tended to have higher soluble K.
3. Install weather stations and monitor
climatic parameters
All three locations fell in Region III of the
Winkler classification. Uva Mira was always
cooler than Lushof and Cordoba. 2008/09
season was the coolest recorded during the
investigation period.
4. Monitor soil water and leaf water
potentials
Soil water regimes are affected by geology.
Shale- with higher fine sand content had
higher water holding capacities, while
granite-derived soils with a higher coarse
sand content had lower water holding
capacities. Leaf water potentials were not
affected by geology in a consistent manner
and were more affected by root system
efficiency and climate during the time of
measurements than geology.
5. Monitor viticultural parameters Yield, cane mass and canopy density were
not significantly affected by geology.
6. Leaf and juice analyses Trends for juice-K and pH not clearly affected
by geology but more dependent on
fertilization and weather patterns than
geology. However, juice N was affected by
geology and was higher for juice of vines on
shale- than granite-derived soils.
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Milestone Achievement
7. Prepare and evaluate experimental wines For the Sauvignon blanc at Uva Mira, wines
tended to be better for the granite-derived
soil. For the rain-fed Cabernet Sauvignon at
Cordoba, wine appeared to be better for
shale-derived soil during warmer seasons,
while the opposite was true during cooler and
wetter seasons.
8. Write final report, scientific- and popular
publications
A semi scientific article and a thesis have
already been published. Scientific and
popular publications are in progress.
CLIMATE
Weather stations were only erected during the course of the 2004/05 season, resulting in
climatic data being lacking for a large part of this season. Furthermore, due to malfunctioning
of the weather stations, reliable data was also lacking for the important summer months of
the 2005/06 season. Weather stations functioned better during the last three experimental
seasons. Climatic conditions for the three seasons may be summarized as follows: 2006/07:
Climatic conditions were relatively mild up to middle January, but a heat wave was
experienced from the 20th to the 25th of January. Summer-rainfall was approximately 30 mm
higher than the long-term average. 2007/08: Temperatures were exceptionally low in
November, relatively high in December and normal in January and February. The summer
was relatively wet, with summer-rainfall (approximately 120 mm) being double the normal
value (60 mm) for this region. 2008/09: This season was the coolest recorded during the
investigation period, with temperatures below normal up to the end of January. Total rain-fall
for the season (average = 880 mm) was approximately 150 mm higher than the long-term
value, largely on account of September and November being exceptionally wet. In general,
temperatures tended to be lower at Uva Mira than at Lushof and Cordoba. This could be
ascribed to lower minimum temperatures (e.g. number of hours with temperature <12°C).
Maximum temperatures did not differ to the same extent. However, all three locations fell in
Region III of the Winkler classification. In comparison to the “control” in Durbanville,
temperatures were higher at all the Helderberg stations.
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SOIL STUDIES
Soil forms and particle size distribution: At Uva Mira, Eikendal and Cordoba, an identical
soil form. i.e. Tukulu, was identified for all experimental sites, despite the differences in
geological formations (granite vs. shale). At Lushof the granitic soil was classified as a
Pinedene (signs of wetness in heavier textured subsoil), while the shale-derived soil was
classified as an Oakleaf (no signs of wetness in subsoil). Particle size distributions,
especially ratios of the different sand fractions, confirmed that parent materials did differ.
Figure 1a illustrates that shale-derived soils contained more fine sand than the granite-
derived soils. On the other hand, Figure 1b shows that granite-derived soils (both B-horizons)
contained more coarse sand than the shale-derived soils. These differences in fine and
coarse sand fractions, especially in the B horizons, proved that parent materials were of
granite and shale origin. In the case of the course sand fraction (Figure 1b) no significant
difference could be detected in the A-horizon, even though values still tended to be higher for
the granitic soils. This suggested that the A-horizons may have been mixed with colluvium
during the process of weathering, thus not reflecting geological differences as clearly as the
B horizons. Both granite- and shale-derived soils were characterised by clay contents that
were typical for Western Cape soils, but parent material did not result in significant
differences (not shown).
Clay mineralogy: Intensity peaks from the x-ray diffraction analyses per unit clay content
showed that kaolinite was the dominant mineral, whereas quartz and feldspar were sub-
dominant in both shale- and granite-derived soils (Figure 2a & 2b are shown as an example).
The presence of feldspar, which is a major component of granite in the apparently shale-
derived soil, implied mixing of parent materials. In addition, small quantities of mica were
found in certain soils. Collectively, the mineralogical compositions indicated that these soils
were highly weathered, probably due to high temperature and rainfall during a previous
geological period. This would have caused leaching of cations, notably K. The small
differences in mineralogical composition resulted to the expectation that these soils may
show very similar chemical and physical characteristics per unit clay content.
Soil chemical properties: The shale-derived soils tended to have higher pH values than the
granite-derived ones, notably in the A-horizon (Table 1). Low pH values in the B1- and B2-
horizons suggested that the soils were inadequately limed during soil preparation. No major
differences were observed in terms of total nitrogen (N) and nitrate (NO3-N) between shale-
and granite-derived soils. Nitrate was found in very low concentrations (Table 1), probably
due to leaching or low mineralization rates - as soil samples were taken during the winter
period. The organic C content of shale- tended to be higher than that of the granite-derived
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soils. This is in agreement with results from previous studies. The A-horizons contained the
highest levels of P, probably due to P-fertilization, as the P levels of parent materials of the
Western Cape soils tends to be low. In these A-horizons, P levels from shale- tended to be
higher than those from granite-derived soils. The very low P levels in all B-horizons pointed
towards improper mixing of P into the B-horizons.
For two horizons (A and B2), exchangeable K tended to be higher in shale- than in granite-
derived soils (Table 1). Levels of exchangeable K in the A-horizons were higher than the
norms for this area, i.e. 70-80 mg kg -1. These relatively high levels for K in the A-horizons
were probably due to fertilization. The K levels in the B2-horizons were low and differed only
marginally between shale- and granite derived soils, suggesting that these soils had
experienced a high degree of weathering which may have diminished differences due to
parent material. This is in agreement with the conclusions of previous studies, i.e. K levels of
B-horizons can generally not be related to underlying geological formations. Soluble K in the
B horizons of granite-derived soils tended to be higher than that of the shale-derived soils
(Table 1). In previous studies, it was also found that certain granite soils of the Western Cape
had a higher ability to release K than shale-derived soils. Total K (largely being insoluble)
was higher in upper horizons (A and B1) of shale-derived soils, thus also being in agreement
with the suggestion that K is released at a faster rate from granite-derived soils.
Calcium levels from shale- tended to be higher than those from granite-derived soils, thus
reflecting the pH values (Table 1). Leaching of Ca may have been higher in granite- than in
shale-derived soils, due to differences in particle sizes. Magnesium levels from the shale-
also tended to be higher than those from the granite-derived soils but only in the A-horizons.
Mixture of parent materials as weathering and soil preparation occurred may have negated
the effect of geological differences in the soil. Furthermore, these soils were also exposed to
various farming practices such as fertilization, liming and irrigation which may have modified
them to a large extent and probably also further negated the effect of geology.
Root distribution
The rootstock types and results of root studies are shown in Table 2. For Cabernet
Sauvignon, similar rootstocks (110 Richter) were used but for Sauvignon blanc, rootstock
types (110 Richter and 99 Richter) varied between the two localities. For this study, more
emphasis was placed on root distribution within individual vineyards, as the same rootstock
was used for vines on both granite- and shale-derived soil at each locality. At Uva Mira, fine
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and thick roots were distributed similarly between the three horizons for granite- and shale-
derived soils. However, the density of fine roots appeared to be higher in granite- than shale-
derived soil, while the density of thick roots appeared to be highest in shale-derived soils. At
Eikendal, the fine root density also appeared to be higher in the granite-derived soil, but the
fraction of fine roots in the 600-900 mm horizons was 10 % higher in the shale- than the
granite-derived horizons. At Lushof, fine root density appeared to be higher in shale- than in
granite-derived soil. Moreover, the fraction of the fine roots in the 300-600 mm and 600-900
mm horizons appeared to be higher in shale- than in granite-derived soil. At Cordoba, the
density of fine roots was higher for granite-derived soil, while the fraction of fine roots in the
600-900 mm horizon also appeared to be higher in granite- than in shale-derived soils. The
above- suggested that fine root density tended to be highest for granitic soils, with Lushof
being the only exception. Root growth may have been improved by the granitic soil’s higher
percentage of coarse sand and lower percentage of fine sand (Figures 1a & 1b). At Lushof,
however, wetness in the subsoil may have impeded root growth for the granitic soil, while the
subsoil of the shale-derived soil (Oakleaf) may have had an enhancing effect.
According to previous studies, the fine root density indicates the quality of the root system.
Consequently, the quality of the root system in granite-derived soil at Uva Mira, Eikendal and
Cordoba sites may be considered better than that in shale-derived soil. However, towards
veraison the fine roots in deep horizons are more important than those in the upper horizons,
thus implying that a slightly higher fraction of fine roots in the deeper layers of the shale- than
granite-derived soils at Uva Mira and Eikendal may have played a critical role in improving
root system efficiency. Also, the quality of the root system at Lushof may have been better
for the shale-derived soil (less signs of wetness in the subsoil). Basically, the root system at
Lushof was better for the shale-derived soil, while the opposite was true at Cordoba. At Uva
Mira and Eikendal there were more roots in the granite-derived soil, but distribution between
different horizons appeared to be better in the shale-derived soil at Eikendal. In addition, the
quality of a root system is known to be highly affected by the method and efficiency of
chemical and physical soil preparation. Consequently, on account of the absence of a
consistent pattern in root distribution in these geologically different soils, soil preparation
before planting may have affected root distribution patterns and the quality or efficiency of
root systems more than the geological differences.
Soil water content Soil water content curves for Uva Mira are indicated in Figure 3a-3c as an example. At this
locality, water holding capacity values for both the 300-600 mm and 600-900 mm layers
appeared to be higher for shale- than granite-derived soils (Table 3). This suggested that, in
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general, shale-derived soil can retain more water than the granite-derived soil. Similar
tendencies were observed at the other localities, albeit to a smaller (Lushof) or a larger
(Eikendal and Cordoba) extent (Table 3). These results suggested that geological parent
material may have a large effect on the hydrological properties of a specific soil, even though
soil chemical properties and/or mineralogy may not be affected to the same extent. As shown
previously, geology affected the fine and coarse sand distribution pattern, with shale-derived
soils having more fine sand than granite-derived soils and the opposite being true in terms of
coarse sand, i.e. higher for granite- than shale-derived soils. Therefore, this puts more
emphasis on the soil water regime of a specific soil, rather than on geology, thus agreeing
with recent literature studies.
Leaf water potentials
As already discussed, the last two seasons (2007/08 and 2008/09) were relatively wet,
resulting in geological differences being less clearly discernible. The fact that three of the
vineyards (Uva Mira, Eikendal and Lushof) were irrigated may also have diminished
geological effects on the vine water status or leaf water potentials. Seasonal patterns may be
summarized as follows:
Uva Mira: In general, vines on granite-derived soils tended to be more water stressed than
those on shale-derived soils. This may have been on account of a higher water holding
capacity in the case of the shale-derived soil, even though the fine root density was higher on
the granite-derived soil. The leaf water potential curve indicating the different degrees of vine
stress on both granite- and shale-derived soils for the 2008/09 season at Uva Mira is shown
as an example in Figure 4.
Eikendal: At this locality the effect of geology on the vine water status was not as clear as at
Uva Mira (not shown). As already mentioned, root density was highest for the granite-derived
soil, but the root system which was more efficient may have been that in the lower horizon
(600-900 mm) of the shale-derived soil. The fact that rootstocks differed between Uva Mira
and Eikendal, may also have contributed towards Sauvignon blanc not being affected in a
similar manner at the two localities.
Lushof: In spite of higher water holding capacity and a superior rooting system in the case of
the shale-derived soil, no clear geological effect could be detected for the Cabernet
Sauvignon at Lushof. Differences in plant water status may have been diminished by means
of irrigation.
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Cordoba: At Cordoba vines on shale-derived soil tended to be more water stressed during
three consecutive seasons (2004/05-2006/07). At this rain-fed locality, a superior rooting
system (granite) may have been more beneficial than a higher water holding capacity
(shale). However, during the wet and relatively cool seasons (2007/2008 and 2008/2009) no
geological effects could be detected. Plant water status may have been affected to a larger
extent by changes in environmental conditions than by geological differences in the soil.
Vine nutritional status
For Sauvignon blanc, significant effects of seasonal differences on the nutritional status of
petioles could be detected for N, Ca and Mg (not shown). In the case of Cabernet
Sauvignon, significant seasonal effects were found for N, P, K, Ca and Mg (not shown).
Therefore, the two cultivars reacted differently during different seasons, with Cabernet
Sauvignon more sensitive to the availability of P and K.
The effect of geological mother material on the nutrient status of petioles (mean values for
five seasons) is shown in Tables 4a & 4b for Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon,
respectively. In the case of Sauvignon blanc, Ca and Mg levels were higher for shale-derived
soil, thus being in agreement with higher levels of Ca especially in the A-horizon (Table 1).
However, Ca levels were still adequate for granite-derived soil. For Cabernet Sauvignon, Ca
and Mg levels did not differ significantly, but petioles from vines on the granite-derived soil
contained higher concentrations of P and K. The latter is in agreement with the seasonal
patterns, described above.
The effect of geology on the nutrient levels of Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon
petioles at each locality are indicated in Tables 5a & 5b (average for five seasons),
respectively. Petiole N was not affected within any of the individual localities, but for
Cabernet Sauvignon values tended to be higher at Cordoba than at Lushof (Table 5b). At
Eikendal, P concentration was highest for the shale-derived soil, while the reverse was true
at Lushof. It is unlikely that these differences in P content are directly related to geology, but
rather the result of P-fertilizers not being distributed equally over the whole block. Petioles
from granite-derived soils had the highest K levels at Cordoba, but at Lushof values were
higher for the shale-derived soil. This suggested that K was absorbed in the highest
quantities from soils with the highest root densities (Table 2). Geology per se did not seem to
play an important role. For Sauvignon blanc, petioles from shale-derived soil contained
higher concentrations of Ca at both localities (Table 5a), while this was also the case for the
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Cabernet Sauvignon at Cordoba (Table 5b). The pattern for Mg was largely similar (higher
values for shale-derived soils at Uva Mira, Eikendal and Cordoba), but at Lushof Mg-
concentration was highest for the granite-derived soil.
The patterns for leaf blades (not shown) were largely similar to those exhibited by petioles,
even though the nutritional status of blades seemed to be affected to a lesser extent by
changes in environmental conditions and/or geological mother material. In general, the
nutritional status of blades and petioles were not affected in a similar manner by geological
mother material at the different localities, i.e. a specific element would be affected by geology
at one locality but not at the other locality. This made it difficult to define the role of geology
on the leaf nutrient status exactly.
Juice composition
The composition of Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon juice differed from season to
season (not shown). Titratable acidity (TTA) was highest and pH lowest in the coolest
season (2008/09). The effects of geological mother material on the nutrient status of
Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon juice are indicated in Table 6a & 6b (mean values
for five seasons). For Sauvignon blanc, juice pH was highest for granite-derived soil, while
juice N was highest for shale-derived soil. In the case of Cabernet Sauvignon, juice P was
affected significantly by geological differences, i.e. highest value on granite-derived soil. This
suggested that the nutritional level of juice is less likely to be affected by geological
differences, in comparison to petioles and leaf blades. In the latter case differences could
also be detected for K, Ca and Mg (Tables 4a & 4b). The effects of geological mother
material on the nutrient levels of Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon juice at each
locality (average for five seasons) are indicated in Table 7a & 7b, respectively. For
Sauvignon blanc, sugar content was higher at Uva Mira than at Eikendal. This was largely on
account of botrytis being problematical during some seasons. In order to obtain healthy
grapes, harvest at Eikendal was done before the target value of 22.5°B to 23.0°B was
reached. In the case of Cabernet Sauvignon, sugar content was higher at the rain-fed
Cordoba than at Lushof. However, sugar content did not seem to be affected by geological
parent material. For the Sauvignon blanc at Uva Mira, TTA was higher for shale-derived soil,
but pH was not affected significantly by geology at any of the individual localities – in spite of
the significant effect indicated for Sauvignon blanc in Table 6a. At Eikendal, juice-N was
significantly higher on shale- than on granite-derived soil, while values also tended to be
higher for shale-derived soil at the other three localities. This is in agreement with tendencies
observed during most individual seasons. At Lushof juice-P was higher for the granite-
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derived soil, thus being in agreement with a higher P level in petioles (Table 5b). The fact
that no significant effects could be detected at any of the individual localities for juice-K,
juice-Ca or juice-Mg, further suggested that, in comparison to juice, petioles and leaf blades
are more sensitive indicators of the availability of specific mineral nutrients.
Viticulture parameters
The effect of geological mother material on specific viticulture parameters at each locality are
indicated in Tables 8a & 8b (average for five seasons) for Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet
Sauvignon, respectively. Yield and cane mass were not affected significantly by geology at
any of the individual localities. For the Sauvignon blanc at Eikendal, berry mass were higher
for granite-derived soil, thus being in agreement with tendencies observed during individual
seasons. At Uva Mira, number of bunches per vine was higher for granite-derived soil.
Similar tendencies were also observed during all individual seasons. For Cabernet
Sauvignon, appreciable differences could be detected between the two localities, e.g. yield
and cane mass being higher at Cordoba than at Lushof. However, the effect of geology on
the viticulture parameters of Cabernet Sauvignon could only be detected for number of
berries per bunch at Lushof, i.e. higher number for granite-derived soil. Similar tendencies
were observed during most seasons. In terms of canopy evaluation, the quality of the canopy
was apparently not highly affected by geological differences as each granite- and shale-
derived site within each vineyard was managed in a similar manner (data not shown).
Wine parameters
Sauvignon blanc:
Wine style and quality of Sauvignon blanc differed between the different experimental
seasons (Table 9a) and may be summarized as follows: 2004/05 season: aroma intensity,
overall quality, fullness, fresh-, cooked- vegetative and tropical fruit characteristics were
scored in the high range. Consequently, this vintage was classified as the “best” obtained
over the course of the five year investigation period. 2005/06 & 2006/07 seasons: Aroma
intensity, overall quality and fullness only received intermediate scores only, even though
fresh vegetative-, cooked vegetative-, tropical fruit- and spicy characteristics were all scored
in the high range for the 2006/07 vintage. The low score allocated to acidity may have
contributed towards the relatively low scores for overall quality and fullness. The quality of
both vintages could also be classified as “intermediate”. 2007/08 & 2008/09 seasons: Aroma
intensity and fullness received low scores during both seasons but overall quality was higher
in 2007/08 than in 2008/09. These low scores correlated with low scores for fresh vegetative
characteristics, indicating that these wines could not be regarded as being typical for
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Sauvignon blanc. In spite of this however, the 2008/09 vintage received high scores for
cooked- and dry-vegetative characteristics. Quality of both vintages could be classified as
“below average”.
The different Sauvignon blanc wine quality parameters (average values obtained over the
course of five seasons) were not significantly affected by differences in geology, i.e. they did
not differ between granite and shale-derived soils (not shown). However, when values were
compared separately for the individual sites, differences could be detected for some
parameters (Table 9b). The wines from Uva Mira scored higher than those from Eikendal for
aroma intensity, overall quality and fullness. This may partly have been on account of Uva
Mira being cooler than Eikendal. However, vine performance was also visually observed to
have been better at Uva Mira than at Eikendal, probably this being the reason these vines
were removed at Eikendal in 2009. At Uva Mira, aroma intensity was found higher for wine
from the granite- than that from the shale-derived soil. At Eikendal, however, aroma intensity
tended to be lower for wine from the granite-derived soil. The other wine parameters did not
differ between granite- and shale-derived soils. These results suggested that the effect of
geology on wine quality was more distinct at Uva Mira than at Eikendal. Responses during
individual seasons (data not shown) were also observed:
2004/05: During this “good” season scores for aroma intensity and tropical fruit character
tended to be higher for wine from the granite-derived soil at Uva Mira, while wine from the
shale-derived soil received the highest score for the fresh vegetative character. In contrast,
wine from the shale-derived soil at Eikendal scored higher for tropical fruit character. These
results suggested that wine quality was affected by geological parent material during this
season, albeit not to a large extent. 2005/06 and 2006/07: For these “intermediate” vintages,
wine quality differed only marginally between granite- and shale-derived soils. 2007/08: For
this vintage, where overall quality was classified as “below average”, wine from the granite-
derived soil at Uva Mira received the highest score for aroma intensity. This was probably on
account of fresh- and cooked vegetative characteristics being more prominent, in comparison
to wine from the shale-derived soil. The two wines at Uva Mira received similar scores for
tropical fruit character. At Eikendal, wine from the shale-derived soil received the highest
score for fresh vegetative characteristics, while tropical fruit and aroma intensity also tended
to be higher. Basically, wine from the granite-derived soil was of superior quality at Uva Mira,
but the reverse was true at Eikendal. During this exceptionally wet season, better drainage in
the case of the granite-derived soil, may have been a positive factor at Uva Mira. However, it
is unclear why a different pattern was observed at Eikendal. 2008/09: At Uva Mira, for this
“below average” vintage, overall quality, fresh vegetative character and tropical fruit tended
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to be higher for wine from granite-derived soil. However, the cooked vegetative character
was higher for wine from shale-derived soil. This pointed towards more prominent Sauvignon
blanc characteristics in the case of the wine from the granite-derived soil. At Eikendal, overall
quality, fresh vegetative and cooked vegetative characteristics tended to be higher for wine
from the granite- than the shale-derived soil.
Considering all seasons, wine quality from the granite-derived soil at Uva Mira tended to be
superior, in comparison to the one from the shale-derived soil. This was largely on account of
aroma intensity being higher during most seasons. No consistent geological effect could be
identified at Eikendal.
Cabernet Sauvignon:
In comparison to Sauvignon blanc, the quality of Cabernet Sauvignon was affected to a
lesser extent by seasonal changes (Table 10a). Even though wine style differed seasonally,
scores for overall quality, aroma intensity and fullness pointed towards acceptable quality for
four seasons (2004/05 to 2006/07 and 2008/09). For the 2007/08 season, however, quality
appeared to be below average.
As in the case of Sauvignon blanc, wine quality parameters for Cabernet Sauvignon
(average values obtained over the course of five seasons) were not significantly affected by
differences in geology (not shown). However, certain tendencies could be detected when
individual sites were evaluated (Table 10b). At Cordoba, vegetative-, spicy-, and fullness-
characteristics tended to be higher for wine from the granite- than shale-derived soil. At
Lushof, fullness-characteristics also tended higher for wines from granite-derived soils but
the vegetative-characteristics tended higher for those from shale-derived soils. Responses
during individual seasons (data not shown) can be summarized as follows:
2004/05: No geological effects on wine quality/ style could be detected.
2005/06: At Lushof vegetative characteristics were highest for wine from the granite-derived
soil, while at Cordoba, aroma intensity and fullness were highest for those from the shale-
derived soil.
2006/07: No geological effects on wine style/quality could be detected at Lushof, but at
Cordoba berry characteristics were highest for wine from the granite-derived soil.
2007/08: For both sites, geological effects were fairly prominent in this vintage, where quality
tended to be “below average”. At Lushof, fullness and overall quality were highest for wine
from the granite-derived soil. At Cordoba wine from the granite-derived soil was also better
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than its counterpart, indicating higher scores for aroma intensity, overall quality, fullness and
berry character.
2008/09: As during the 2007/08 season, geological effects were again fairly prominent for
this vintage that produced “acceptable” wine quality. At Lushof, vegetative- and spicy
characteristics were highest for granite-derived soil. At Cordoba, wine from granite-derived
soil was again the best with higher values for aroma intensity, berry- and spicy
characteristics, fullness and overall quality.
In comparison to Sauvignon blanc, the quality of Cabernet Sauvignon wine was affected to a
larger extent by geological differences, during individual seasons. At Lushof, wine from the
granite-derived soil tended to be the best in the seasons of 2005/06, 2007/08 and 2008/09.
Geological effects on wine style and quality were highly prominent in the wine from Cordoba,
which was the rain-fed locality. At Cordoba, quality from the shale-derived soil tended to be
best only in 2005/06, while it was higher for wine from the granite-derived soil in 2006/07,
2007/08 and 2008/09. Differences in wine style/ quality due to geology were especially
noticeable during the last two seasons, which were cooler (and wetter) than the first three.
This suggested that better drainage in the case of granite-derived soils (due to the higher
coarse sand fraction) may have played a positive role during wet seasons – especially at
rain-fed sites of Cordoba.
Conclusions
Particle size distributions, especially ratios of the different sand fractions, showed that shale-
derived soils contain a higher fraction of fine sand than granite-derived soils, while granite-
derived soils contain more coarse sand. Probably on account of this, shale-derived soil can
retain more water than granite-derived soil. Even though plant water status may be affected
to a larger extent by changes in environmental conditions than by geological differences in
the soil, the latter should be considered during irrigation scheduling. Although total K (largely
being insoluble) is higher for shale-derived soils, soluble K tends to be higher for granite-
derived soils. This suggests that granite-derived soils have a higher ability to release K.
Consequently, it may be necessary to adjust K-fertilization guidelines at the hand of
geological mother material. In terms of wine style/ quality, Sauvignon blanc seems to be
affected by geological differences to a smaller extent than Cabernet Sauvignon. However,
Cabernet Sauvignon wine style/ quality is not affected by geology in a consistent manner,
with wine from the shale-derived soil being better during some seasons, while the opposite
may occur during other seasons. The latter (better wine from granite-derived soil), seems to
be especially noticeable during cooler (and wetter) seasons. This suggests that the effect of
geological mother material on wine style/quality will be different during different seasons i.e.
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it will depend highly on environmental conditions experienced during a specific season than
on geology. The nitrogen content in juice from shale-derived soils tends to be higher than in
juice from granite-derived soils. In this way geological mother material may have an (indirect)
effect on wine quality. This aspect warrants further investigation. The results from this
investigation warrant a publication in a scientific journal.
4. Accumulated outputs List ALL the outputs from the start of the project. The year of each output must also be indicated.
Technology developed
None Human resources developed/trained
Ms. P. Shange obtained a MSc. degree (Viticulture) in November 2009 and was trained to be a Researcher through this project. Patents
1. Semi scientific article: (congress manuscript): P.L .Shange and W. J. Conradie, Quantification of the effects of soil form, geology and climate on wine quality in the Helderberg area (South Western Cape, South Africa), Second International Congress on Mountain and Steep Slope Viticulture, 13 - 15 March 2008, Monforte de Lemos, Riberira Sacra (Galicia, Spain). 2. Thesis: P.Shange. Nutritional status of geologically different vineyards in Helderberg. M.Sc. Thesis, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, 7602 Matieland (Stellenbosch), South Africa. December 2009. Presentations/papers delivered
1. Poster presentation. C.L. HOWELL and W. J. CONRADIE. The effect of soil form, geology and climate on grapevine performance in the Helderberg area. SASEV Congress. November 2006.
2. Poster presentation. P. SHANGE and W. J. CONRADIE. Quantification of the effects of soil form, geology and climate on wine quality in the Helderberg area (South Western Cape, South Africa), Second International Congress on Mountain and Steep Slope Viticulture, 13-15 March 2008, Monforte de Lemos, Riberira Sacra (Galicia, Spain). 3. Congress Presentation: P. SHANGE, MV. FEY, W.J. CONRADIE and P. RAATH. Potassium status in geologically different vineyards at the Helderberg area. Combined Congress, 21-24 January 2008, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, Eastern Cape.
4. Congress Presentation: P. SHANGE, MV. FEY, W.J. CONRADIE and P. RAATH. Potassium status in geologically different vineyards in the Helderberg area. SASEV Congress. November 2008.
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5. Poster presentation. P. SHANGE and W. J. CONRADIE. Quantification of the effects of soil form, geology and climate on wine quality in the Helderberg area (South Western Cape, South Africa). SASEV Congress. November 2008. 6. Thesis defence: Nutritional status of geologically different vineyards in Helderberg. 18 November 2009, University of Stellenbosch.
Local conferences (only specify separately for THIRP purposes)
Equipment (capital items*) [List capital items HERE]
Other
* Industries will only fund capital items under exceptional circumstances
6. Total estimated budget for project (insert actual cost when available)
Year CFPA DFPT DFTS Winetech THRIP Other TOTAL
Total cost in real terms for year 1 2004/05 159 723 166 242 325 965
Total cost in real terms for year 2 2005/06 174 043 181 147 355 190
Total cost in real terms for year 3 2006/07 184 404 191 930 376 334
Total cost in real terms for year 4 2007/08 172 171 267 041 439 212
Total cost in real terms for year 5 2008/09 215 214 223 998 439 212
Total cost in real terms for year 5 2009/10 215 214 223 998 439 212
TOTAL 1 120 769 1 254 356
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Table 1. Chemical parameters of different horizons for granite- and shale-derived soils from four localities in the Helderberg area (values indicate means per soil type).
(1)
In the case of total K, different letters within the same row indicate significant differences (P ≤ 0.1). No significant differences could be detected for any of the other parameters.
Soil parameters A B1 B2
Granite Shale Granite Shale Granite Shale
pH (KCl) 4.78 5.15 4.15 4.25 3.98 4.18
Resistance (Ohm) 2393 1823 3715 3928 2893 3025
P (mg kg-1
) 20.0 29.3 3.30 2.30 1.50 1.30
Exchangeable K (mg kg-1
) 117 132 49.5 50.0 28.3 35.5
Total K (mg kg-1
) 550a(1)
752b 466a 644b 368a 484a
Soluble K (mg ℓ-1
) 5.93 6.07 3.79 2.73 2.26 1.90
Exchangeable Ca (cmolc kg-1
) 2.53 4.88 0.70 0.91 0.76 0.88
Exchangeable Mg (cmolc kg-1
) 0.68 0.81 0.27 0.25 0.58 0.58
C (%) 2.03 2.59 0.59 0.71 0.19 0.22
N (%) 0.12 0.12 0.09 0.09 0.07 0.08
N03-N (mg ℓ-1
) 0.84 1.20 0.46 0.50 0.66 0.31
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Table 2. Root distribution in granite- and shale-derived soils in the Helderberg area.
(1) Values indicate means per soil type at each locality.
Cultivar Locality/ Geology Root distribution (%) Root density per m2 profile
rootstock Fine roots ( ≤2.0 mm diameter) Thick roots ( >2.0 mm diameter) Fine roots Thick roots
Table 3. Water holding capacities (mm)(1) for granite- and shale-derived soils in Sauvignon blanc (Uva Mira and Eikendal) and Cabernet Sauvignon (Lushof and Cordoba) vineyards in Helderberg.
Localities Geology Soil depth (mm)
0-300 300-600 600-900 Total
Uva Mira Granite 41.8 43.7 50.9 136
Shale 38.0 63.3 64.3 166
Eikendal Granite 42.3 58.5 28.9 130
Shale 38.1 62.5 66.2 167
Lushof Granite 54.6 44.8 47.2 147
Shale 54.7 52.5 56.2 163
Cordoba Granite 45.8 54.6 59.0 159
Shale 55.2 63.3 69.0 188
(1)
Water retained between -0.01 MPa and -1.50 MPa
Table 4a. Effect of geological differences on petiole nutrient levels of Sauvignon blanc over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Geology N P K Ca Mg
%
Granite 0.70 a(1)
0.47 a 2.11 a 1.70 b 0.72 b
Shale 0.71 a 0.53 a 2.13 a 1.93 a 0.89 a
LSD 0.10 0.07 0.47 0.12 0.07
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
Table 4b. Effect of geological differences on petiole nutrient levels of Cabernet Sauvignon over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Geology N P K Ca Mg
%
Granite 0.56 a(1)
0.75 a 2.64 a 1.90 a 1.06 a
Shale 0.58 a 0.58 b 2.29 b 2.03 a 1.01 a
LSD 0.03 0.08 0.34 0.16 0.06
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
Table 5a. Effect of geological differences on petiole nutrient levels of Sauvignon blanc at each locality over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Locality Geology N P K Ca Mg
%
Uva Mira Granite 0.68 a(1)
0.47 b 1.77 b 1.67 c 0.80 b
Shale 0.74 a 0.49 ab 1.47 b 1.87 ab 0.95 a
Eikendal Granite 0.72 a 0.47 b 2.45 a 1.73 bc 0.64 c
Shale 0.67 a 0.58 a 2.80 a 1.98 a 0.82 b
LSD 0.14 0.10 0.66 0.17 0.10
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
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Table 5b. Effect of geological differences on petiole nutrient levels of Cabernet Sauvignon at each locality over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Locality Geology N P K Ca Mg
%
Lushof Granite 0.54 b(1)
0.57 b 1.71 c 1.97 b 1.02 b
Shale 0.55 b 0.35 c 2.55 b 1.85 b 0.81 c
Cordoba Granite 0.58 ab 0.93 a 3.56 a 1.82 b 1.10 b
Shale 0.61 a 0.82 a 2.04 c 2.21 a 1.20 a
LSD 0.05 0.12 0.48 0.22 0.09
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
Table 6a. Effect of geological differences on the chemical composition of Sauvignon blanc juice over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Geology Sugar TTA pH N P K Ca Mg
0B gL
-1 (mgL
-1)
Granite 22.7 a(1)
8.20 a 3.30 a 240 b 55.3 a 1133 a 38.2 a 82.2 a
Shale 22.3 a 8.42 a 3.23 b 312 a 57.2 a 1136 a 35.4 a 75.1 a
LSD 0.6 0.38 0.06 64.1 11.3 145 8.2 8.1
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
Table 6b. Effect of geological differences on the chemical composition of Cabernet Sauvignon juice over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Geology Sugar TTA pH N P K Ca Mg
0B gL
-1 mgL
-1
Granite 23.5 a(1)
7.53 a 3.41 a 280 a 133 a 1306 a 36.5 a 97.5 a
Shale 23.6 a 7.34 a 3.41 a 316 a 101 b 1242 a 51.9 a 92.8 a
LSD 0.3 0.51 0.18 53 18 185 19.7 11.4
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
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Table 7a. Effect of geological differences on the chemical composition of Sauvignon blanc juice at each locality over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Locality Geology Sugar (0B) TTA (gL
-1) pH N P K Ca Mg
mgL-1
Uva Mira Granite 23.7 a(1)
7.92 b 3.23 bc 295 a 51.31 a 1031 a 36.98 a 86.93 a
Shale 23.0 a 8.66 a 3.15 c 343 a 53.01 a 1054 a 39.50 a 84.04 a
Eikendal Granite 21.7 b 8.48 a 3.37 a 184 b 59.33 a 1235 a 39.32 a 77.50 ab
Shale 21.7 b 8.18 ab 3.31 ab 281 a 61.38 a 1218 a 31.30 a 66.09 b
LSD 0.9 0.54 0.09 91 16.01 206 11.60 11.49
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
Table 7b. Effect of geological differences on the chemical composition of Cabernet Sauvignon juice at each locality over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Locality Geology Sugar 0B TTA (gL
-1) pH N P K Ca Mg
mgL-1
Lushof Granite 22.9 b(1)
7.46 a 3.22 c 258 b 132.95 a 1201 a 36.16 a 94.12 a
Shale 23.2 b 7.12 a 3.31 bc 289 ab 78.50 b 1185 a 44.46 a 95.22 a
Cordoba Granite 24.1 a 7.60 a 3.59 a 301 ab 132.10 a 1411 a 36.89 a 100.94 a
Shale 23.9 a 7.56 a 3.51 ab 342 a 124.04 a 1298 a 59.26 a 89.51 a
LSD 0.5 0.72 0.26 76 24.99 261 27.83 16.17
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
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Table 8a. Effect of geological differences on the viticulture parameters of Sauvignon blanc obtained at each locality over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Locality Geology Yield (ton/ha) Cane Mass (ton/ha) Berries/ Bunch Bunch Mass (g) Berry Mass (g) Number of bunches/ Vine
Uva Mira Granite 6.54 b(1) 3.58 a 95 a 135 b 1.65 c 19 a
Shale 5.66 b 3.93 a 84 a 134 b 1.68 c 14 c
Eikendal Granite 9.03 a 3.60 a 86 a 183 a 2.01 a 17 b
Shale 8.97 a 4.00 a 94 a 171 a 1.86 b 16 b
LSD 2.27 0.91 22 25 0.13 2.0
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
Table 8b. Effect of geological differences on the viticulture parameters of Cabernet Sauvignon obtained at each locality over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09).
Locality Geology Yield (ton/ha) Cane Mass (ton/ha) Berries / Bunch Bunch Mass (g) Berry Mass ( g) Number of bunches/ Vine
Lushof Granite 6.51 ab(1) 4.54 b 115 a 143 ab 1.35 a 18 a
Shale 5.54 b 3.86 b 101 b 128 b 1.35 a 18 a
Cordoba Granite 7.43 a 5.87 a 122 a 163 a 1.40 a 19 a
Shale 7.61 a 6.33 a 123 a 158 a 1.33 a 20 a
LSD 1.66 0.79 14 23 0.10 5.0
(1)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences (p ≤ 0.1).
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Table 9a. Effect of seasonal differences on Sauvignon blanc wine parameters obtained from the Helderberg area over five seasons at two localities (2004/05-2008/09)(1).
Season Aroma intensity Overall quality Fullness Vegetative character Tropical fruit(5)
Spicy (6)
Acidity
Fresh-(2)
Cooked-(3)
Dry-(4)
2004/05 6.23 a(7)
5.49 a 5.32 a 4.23 a 3.01 a 1.77 b 4.40 a 1.62 bc 5.57 a
2005/06 5.64 b 5.08 b 5.16 ab 3.80 ab 1.79 b 1.22 c 4.13 a 0.71 d 5.12 b
2006/07 5.52 b 5.08 b 4.93 b 4.28 a 2.87 a 1.95 b 4.31 a 2.37 a 4.98 b
2007/08 4.99 c 4.94 b 4.46 c 3.45 b 2.96 a 1.95 b 3.27 b 1.50 c 5.53 a
2008/09 4.66 c 4.42 c 4.51 c 3.47 b 2.84 a 2.81 a 3.19 b 1.87 b 5.31 ab
LSD 0.35 0.36 0.25 0.53 0.69 0.44 0.49 0.27 0.36
(1)
As evaluated by an experienced panel on a ten-centimetre unstructured line scale (undetectable/unacceptable = 0, prominent/excellent = 10) (2)
Herb, grass, green pepper, eucalyptus (3)
Green beans, asparagus, olive, artichoke (4)
Hay/ straw, tea, tobacco (5)
Pineapple, melon, banana, guava (6)
Liquorice, aniseed, black pepper, clove (7)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences during specific seasons (P < 0.10).
Table 9b. Effect of geology on Sauvignon blanc wine parameters obtained at each locality in the Helderberg area over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09) (1).
Locality Geology Aroma intensity Overall quality Fullness Vegetative character Tropical fruit Spicy Acidity
Fresh- Cooked- Dry-
Uva Mira Granite 5.71 a(2)
5.11 ab 5.02 a 3.91 a 2.73 a 2.05 a 3.90 a 1.73 a 5.23 a
Shale 5.38 b 5.24 a 5.01 a 3.95 a 2.64 a 2.25 a 3.98 a 1.51 a 5.21 a
Eikendal Granite 5.16 b 4.74 c 4.77 b 3.58 a 2.65 a 1.97 a 3.57 a 1.65 a 5.49 a
Shale 5.41 ab 4.91 bc 4.70 b 3.97 a 2.74 a 2.11 a 3.99 a 1.57 a 5.28 a
LSD 0.31 0.33 0.22 0.47 0.62 0.39 0.44 0.24 0.32
(1)
As evaluated by an experienced panel on a ten-centimetre unstructured line scale (undetectable/unacceptable = 0, prominent/excellent = 10) (2)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences during specific seasons (P < 0.10).
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Table 10a. Effect of seasonal differences on Cabernet Sauvignon wine parameters obtained from the Helderberg area over five seasons at two localities (2004/05-2008/09)(1).
Season Aroma intensity Overall quality Fullness Vegetative(2)
Berry(3)
Spicy(4)
Colour Astringency Acidity
2004/05 6.57 a(5)
5.63 a 5.48 a 4.64 b 4.89 ab 2.62 b 7.48 ab 4.69 a 5.19 a
2005/06 6.26 a 5.51 a 5.31 ab 4.56 b 5.28 a 2.53 b 7.63 a 4.74 a 5.23 a
2006/07 6.19 a 5.37 ab 4.72 bc 5.24 a 4.48 b 2.92 ab 6.90 c 4.48 a 5.09 a
2007/08 5.30 b 4.80 b 4.33 c 4.16 b 4.29 b 2.67 b 6.00 d 2.40 b 5.11 a
2008/09 6.59 a 5.17 ab 5.59 a 5.38 a 4.88 ab 3.20 a 7.06 bc 4.88 a 5.10 a
LSD 0.60 0.62 0.60 0.51 0.75 0.49 0.57 0.45 0.50
(1)
As evaluated by an experienced panel on a ten-centimetre unstructured line scale (undetectable/unacceptable = 0, prominent/excellent = 10) (2)
Herb, grass, green pepper, mint, eucalyptus (3)
Blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, black currant (4)
Liquorice, aniseed, black pepper, clove (5)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences during specific seasons (p < 0.10).
Table 10b. Effect of geology on Cabernet Sauvignon wine parameters obtained at each locality in the Helderberg area over five seasons (2004/05-2008/09)(1).
5.13 a 4.97 ab 4.62 b 4.81 a 2.49 b 7.10 a 4.35 a 5.40 a
Shale 6.01 a 5.05 a 4.75 b 4.78 ab 4.51 a 2.61 b 6.78 a 4.18 a 5.11 ab
Cordoba Granite 6.43 a 5.55 a 5.41 a 5.11 a 4.67 a 3.18 a 7.20 a 4.21 a 4.86 b
Shale 6.31 a 5.45 a 5.22 ab 4.66 ab 5.06 a 2.87 ab 6.99 a 4.22 a 5.21 ab
LSD 0.53 0.56 0.53 0.45 0.67 0.44 0.51 0.40 0.45
(1)
As evaluated by an experienced panel on a ten-centimetre unstructured line scale (undetectable/unacceptable = 0, prominent/excellent = 10) (2)
Different letters within the same column denote significant differences during specific seasons (p < 0.10).
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0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
A B1 B2
Horizons
Fin
e S
and
0.2
5-0
.10 m
m (%
)
Shale
Granite
a
b
a
b
a
b
Figure 1a. Fine sand content of different horizons for granite- and shale-derived soils at four localities in the Helderberg area (values with different letters indicate differences, P ≤ 0.1).
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0
5
10
15
20
25
30
A B1 B2
Horizons
Coars
e S
and
2.0
-0.5
mm
(%
)
Shale
Granitea
a
a
b
a
b
Figure 1b. Coarse sand content of different horizons for granite- and shale-derived soils at four localities in the Helderberg area (values with different letters indicate differences, P ≤ 0.1).
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0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
5 10 15 20 25 30
2 theta (degrees)
Inte
ns
ity
(a
rbit
rary
un
its
)
0 - 30 cm
30- 80 cm
80-120 cm
0.716 nm K 0.357 nm K
0.334 nm Q
0.315 nm F
0.50 nm M
Figure 2a. A clay diffraction pattern of a granite-derived soil at Uva Mira (F = feldspar, Q = quartz, K = kaolinite and M = mica).
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0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
5 10 15 20 25 30
2 theta (degrees)
Inte
ns
ity
(arb
itra
ry u
nit
s) 0 - 40 cm
40 - 90 cm
90 - 120 cm
0.315 nm F
0.334 nm Q
0.357 nm K
0.716 nm K
0.50 nm M
Figure 2b. A clay diffraction pattern of a shale-derived soil at Uva Mira (F = feldspar, Q = quartz, K = kaolinite and M = mica).
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5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
5/9
11/9
17/9
25/9
1/10
9/10
16/1
023
/10
30/1
06/
1114
/11
20/1
127
/11
4/12
12/1
218
/12
15/1
22/1
29/1 5/2
12/2
20/2
26/2
Date (2008/09)
Vo
lum
e p
erc
en
tag
e s
oil
wa
ter
(%)
0-300 mm granite 0-300 mm shaleField capacity
Permanent wilting point
Figure 3a. Soil water content curves for granite- and shale-derived soils for the A-horizons at Uva Mira (2008/09).
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5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
5/9
11/9
17/9
25/9
1/10
9/10
16/1
023
/10
30/1
0
6/11
14/1
120
/11
27/1
1
4/12
12/1
218
/12
15/1
22/1
29/1
5/2
12/2
20/2
26/2
Date (2008/09)
Volu
me p
erc
en
tage s
oil w
ate
r (%
)
300-600 mm granite 300-600 mm shaleField capacity
Permanent wilting point
Figure 3b. Soil water content curves for granite- and shale-derived soils for the B1-horizons at Uva Mira (2008/09).
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5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
5/9
11/9
17/9
25/9
1/10
9/10
16/1
0
23/1
0
30/1
0
6/11
14/1
1
20/1
1
27/1
1
4/12
12/1
2
18/1
2
15/1
22/1
29/1 5/2
12/2
20/2
26/2
Date (2008/09)
Vo
lum
e p
erc
en
tag
e s
oil
wate
r (%
)
600-900 mm granite 600-900 mm shaleField capacity
Permanent wilting point
Figure 3c. Soil water content curves for granite- and shale-derived soils for the B2-horizons at Uva Mira (2008/09).
Final report
WW13/13 – P. Shange – ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij
36
Figure 4. Leaf water potential (LWP) curves for vines on granite- and shale-derived soils at Uva Mira (2008/09).
