Scion–rootstock interactions influence the growth and behaviour of the grapevine root system in a heavy clay soil

Background and Aims: Generally, grapevine roots have been less studied than the above-ground parts of the plant. Here we analyse scion–rootstock interactions in mature vines growing in a heavy clay soil in a climate characterised by severe summer drought to investigate the effect of the scion–rootstock interaction in a suboptimal soil. Methods and Results: The rootstocks, 34 Ecole de Montpellier, 140 Ruggeri and 1103 Paulsen, were grafted onto Nerello Mascalese and Nero d'Avola scions and assessed along with self-rooted vines. Root distribution and root architecture were analysed using the profile wall method at 0, 60 and 120 cm from the row midline. Root density was greatest at a depth between 21 and 60 cm. The cumulative root fraction for root density registered a β value, a numerical quantity that summarises depth distribution, ranging between 0.932 and 0.962. Root number and density were significantly lower for the self-rooted vines compared to that of the grafted vines. Conclusions: The scion genotypes affected most developmental parameters, including the diameter of the root system, the root density at 21–80 cm depth and the ratio of fine roots to coarse roots. Significance of the Study: The scion plays an important role in grapevine root growth, development and distribution in a heavy clay soil, although the mechanism remains unclear.