Developing perennial fruit crop models in APSIM Next Generation using grapevine as an example

Abstract A new model for grapevines (Vitis vinifera) is the first perennial fruit crop using Agricultural Production System sIMulator (APSIM) Next Generation framework. Modules phenology, light interception, carbohydrate allocation, yield formation and berry composition were adapted or added into APSIM to represent nature of fruit-bearing vines. The simulated grapevine phenological cycle starts with dormancy phase triggered by a critical photoperiod in autumn, then goes through subsequent phenophases sequentially finally returns cycle. canopy microclimate module within was extended allow row interception. arbitrator enhanced consider both sink strength priority reflect reserve as concurrent competing sink. Weather conditions source–sink ratio at developmental stages used determine potential components, e.g. bunch number, number fresh weight. calibrated tested extensively four detailed data sets. captured variations timing measured budburst, flowering véraison over 15 seasons across New Zealand five different varieties. calculated seasonal dynamics interception alley consistent field observations. also reproduced dry matter organs, wide variation components caused weather pruning regimes. modelling framework developed this work can be other crops.