A key factor in the selection of suitable grape varieties in viticulture when establishing new vine stocks (see Vine establishment plan) is, among other things, their resistance to pests (microorganisms, animals, fungi), diseases or their pathogens and environmental conditions such as climate, weather and soil type. This is crucial to ensure long-term success and productivity.
In addition, factors such as the desired yield, the quality of the resulting wine and the care required in the vineyard such as fertilisation, foliage care and harvesting (grape harvest) must also be taken into account. The topic also plays a role in plant protection, as organisms that are undesirable in the vineyard can develop resistance to plant protection products over time due to improper application.
Definitions of terms
The generic term in common parlance is resistance and/or resilience, whereby the two are often used interchangeably as synonyms. However, there are also other terms. The complex topic is also made more difficult by the fact that the meaning in the various languages is sometimes different. The following descriptions refer to plants, but in particular to the grapevine.
Resilience
Resilience (lat. resilire = to bounce back, rebound) refers to the ability of plants to recover from stresses such as cold, heat, drought or other environmental stressors and restore their normal function. Plants with high resilience can, for example, develop new shoots or leaves after frost damage and restore their vitality. If a system is not resilient, environmental changes cannot be absorbed, the ecosystem changes and loses certain functions and services.
Resistance
Resistance (lat. resistere = to resist, oppose, put up a defence) refers to how resistant a plant is to pests and pathogens. Plants with a high level of resistance are preventively equipped and can react with natural defence mechanisms if necessary (see below under fungi and phylloxera).
Tolerance
Tolerance (lat. tolerare = to endure, to tolerate) refers to how well a plant can cope with environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures or soil conditions without suffering significant damage. Plants with high tolerance can, for example, survive under extreme heat, cold (frost) or drought conditions by utilising mechanisms such as water storage or evaporative cooling. The damage is less severe, which is why tolerance can be described as limited resistance.
Immunity
Immunity refers to the ability to be fully protected against certain pests, diseases or environmental stressors. Plants with high...
