Plant Testing for Vineyards

Why is plant analysis important for grapevine nutrition? 

Plant analysis provides direct insight into the nutrient status of grapevines, helping growers identify deficiencies or imbalances that may not be apparent from soil tests alone. By measuring nutrient uptake, it allows for more precise adjustments to fertilisation strategies, ultimately supporting better vine health, improved fruit quality, and higher yields. 

When should plant tissue be sampled for grapevines? 

Timing is key in plant analysis. For grapes, leaf or petiole sampling at flowering offers a snapshot of nutrient levels during a critical growth phase. However, this test doesn't reflect nutrient status during fruit ripening, especially under moisture stress. To address this, leaf blade testing at veraison (the onset of ripening) is recommended. This helps assess nutrient availability as the berries mature, guiding late-season nutrient management decisions. 

Our plant testing for vineyards services include: 

Petiole Testing at Flowering 

• Ideal for assessing mobile nutrients (N, P, K, Mg) during early growth stages, enabling timely corrective actions. 
• Includes: Basic Plant (BP) – N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Ti; Nitrate-N (NO₃) 

Combined Grape Profile (CGP) 

• A cost-effective option that analyses both petiole and blade tissues at flowering, delivering a full nutrient picture.
• Petiole: NO₃-N, P, K, Mg
• Blade: N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Ti 

Leaf Blade Testing at Veraison (Ripening) 

• Offers insight into overall nutrient status, especially immobile elements like Ca, B, Zn, and Cu, useful for planning next season’s fertiliser strategy. 
• Includes: Basic Plant (BP) – N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Ti 
• These services help diagnose nutrient deficiencies, monitor seasonal changes, and guide fertiliser decisions for healthy, productive vines. 

Download the Sauvignon Blanc Leaf Nutrient Ranges technical note

Download the Grape Crop Guide

Speak to the team to learn moreDownload the Analysis Request form