Response of Merlot Grapevine to Drought Is Associated to Adjustments of Growth and Nonstructural Carbohydrates Allocation in above and Underground Organs

Studying changes in partitioning of dry matter and nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) content both aboveground underground perennial tissues drought-affected grapevines could provide insights into plant response carbon allocation strategies during stress periods. The analysis soluble NSC starch leaf petioles, due to their role hydraulic segmentation, should also be considered. In the present research, these aspects have been investigated Merlot grown pots subjected progressive increasing soil dehydration, well-irrigated vines. Drought conditions caused drastic reduction shoot elongation total area development favor a greater biomass towards roots, where most reserves were conserved. Dry organs increased stressed vines growth reduction, possible anatomical modifications. Vines drought showed higher supporting hypothesis that they are involved as compatible solutes osmotic adjustments.