Term (French: sécheresse, also drought stress) for the condition of a vine that suffers from a lack of water for various reasons. In extreme cases, this can lead to complete destruction (apoplexy). Certain grape varieties, however, have developed a resistance to dryness and drought. A balanced water regime in a vineyard is very important; too little water is just as damaging as too much. A certain (mild) water stress can even be advantageous for the quality because of the resulting lower yield. Essentially, two interacting components play a role in the water supply of the vine. These are the water storage capacity of the soil in the root zone and the humidity in the atmosphere. The coincidence of strong transpiration (evaporation) via the stomata (stomata ) of the leaves and low soil moisture is particularly negative. A soil that is too dry can be partially compensated for by sufficient humidity in cool weather.
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Egon Mark
Diplom-Sommelier, Weinakademiker und Weinberater, Volders (Österreich)