Interactions between Zn Enrichment of Grapes cv. Syrah Fertilized with ZnO and Photoassimilates Mobilization

Micronutrients have an important role in crops, namely Zn, being responsible for several physiological pathways, improving crops quality and growth. Zinc role is related to enzymes activity, carbohydrate metabolism, photosynthesis, protein metabolism and maintenance of the integrity of biological membranes. Considering his importance and the deficiency observed worldwide, an itinerary of foliar spraying with zinc oxide (ZnO) in vines of cv. Syrah during the production cycle, was outlined at Biscaia field in Palmela, Portugal (38º 35’23.629’’N; 8º 51’ 46.208’’ W). The treatment applied has concentrations of 10% and 30% (150 and 450 g ha^-1). At harvest, Zn concentration in grapes, reached a maximum increase of 55 % with the highest treatment concentration, face to control. Also, leaf gas exchange after foliar spraying, didn’t present toxic signs in both concentrations, even being observed a positive impact in Pn and iWUE, thus contributing to biomass levels. Moreover, remote detection through Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s), allowed to obtain the morphology of the field, being observed a superficial drainage capacity of 65 % with water lines in the direction of NW-SE and SE sense, along the lines of the vines, also contributing to quality of the crops. This strategy of Zn enrichment, demonstrated to have potential benefits for crops, being additionally advantageous for consumption since this micronutrient has several important functions.