The essential role of boron in table grape production

The addition of micronutrients like boron are critical in the cultivation of table grapes, as Zunel van Eeden discovered in conversation with agronomist

- Pieter Botha.

In table grape production, boron is one of the most vital, yet often overlooked, micronutrients.

Although it is required in small quantities, its impact on yield, fruit quality, and pollination is substantial.

Pieter Botha, agronomist at Yara Africa Fertilizer, shared key insights into the importance of boron, its behaviour in the plant-soil system, application strategies, and considerations for long-term management.

BORON'S IMPORTANCE

Boron is one of 12 plant-essential nutrients and is specifically classified as a micronutrient.

In grapes, however, boron — along with zinc — is required in greater quantities than other micronutrients, due to its importance for growth, fruit set, yield, and grape quality.

Table grapes typically use anything between 150g/ha and 300g/ha of boron annually, but the actual requirement varies depending on soil type, cultivar, planting density, vigour, and canopy volume.

Boron is involved in critical physiological processes, including enzyme function, carbohydrate metabolism, sugar translocation, and the synthesis of nucleic acids and plant hormones.

It is essential to maintain the structural integrity of cell membranes and is concentrated in growing points such as young leaves and fruit.

Moreover, boron facilitates calcium transport within the plant and improves cell wall elasticity, making it especially important for flower development, pollen germination, fruit set, and berry development.

Adequate boron nutrition also directly influences crop yield and uniformity. '

APPLICATION AND MOBILITY