Adaptability of Grape (Vitis vinifera var. ‘Red Cardinal’) Cuttings in Surigao Del Norte Soil Conditions

Aims: This study explores the adaptability of grape (Vitis vinifera var. 'Red Cardinal') cuttings in diverse soil conditions across Surigao del Norte, Caraga, Philippines.

Study Design: Data were analyzed using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in Complete Randomized Design (CRD). Significant among treatment means were compared using the Tukey Honest Significant Difference (THSD).

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the nursery inside Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU) Mainit Campus, Magpayang, Mainit, Surigao del Norte. The duration of the study was from the first week of August 2023 up to the first week of December 2023.

Methodology: Physical components of each type of soil in selected municipalities in the province were characterized and analyzed using a hydrometer test while chemical characteristics were analyzed by a third-party soil testing laboratory in Agusan del Norte province. Soil types representing each municipality in Surigao del Norte were tested for the adaptability of this variety of grapes under nursery conditions. Survival and mortality rates and their agronomic characteristics, such as plant height, number of leaves, length and width of leaves, root length, and the number of roots.

Results: Results revealed that Surigao del Norte has varying soil types, from moderately coarse to moderately fine and heavy fine soils. Results of soil analysis showed that Alegria, Mainit, and Placer have sandy loam, sandy clay loam, and clay loam soils, respectively, with sufficient macro- and micronutrients and a low pH. Moreover, the municipality of Gigaquit has loamy-type soils with a moderately low pH and essential elements. Claver has clay soil that is low and deficient with these macro- and micronutrients and high in pH

Conclusion: Generally, grape var. 'Red Cardinal' cuttings performed best in sandy loam soil with a higher survival rate and promising agronomic characteristics. While, loam and clay loam soils comparably exhibited good results for the growth performance of grape cuttings, these findings provide valuable insights for local farmers in Surigao del Norte, guiding them in optimizing grape cultivation. Enhanced grape production could contribute to economic growth and improve the livelihoods of farming communities in the province.