EFFECT OF FOLIAR APPLICATION ON PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS IN VITIS VINIFERA; PRELIMINARY RESULTS

The effect of new foliar application program (ActiLeaf by Valagro SpA) on phenolic compounds in Vitis vinifera in comparison with soil application was tested for two years. The preliminary results show that ActiLeaf program (low N levels) can modify the vegetative/reproductive behavior of vines from a physiological and viticultural point of view, controlling crop quantity and quality: vines under foliar supply conditions appeared to reduce vigor (yield and average cluster weight) and therefore generate a significant effect on sugar accumulation, phenols synthesis (a greater level of total and extractable anthocyanins and of polyphenols) and aromatic compounds (red fruits) in wines.