GIS applications in viticulture: the spatial distribution analysis of slope inclination and slope exposure in Huşi vine growing centre – Huşi vineyard

Abstract

The paper presents the results of a study regarding the spatial distribution of slope exposure and slope inclination in Husi vine growing centre, Husi vineyard. These factors determine the ecological suitability of an area for vine growing and influence, to a large extent, both directions of wine production and grape quality. The knowledge in their share and variation in vine growing areas, allows to establish the proper grapevine varieties, to place each variety in the optimum location (microzoning), to choose the optimal training system and the appropriate maintenance techniques for the vineyard area. The technology that allows such analysis and the elaboration of maps with spatial distribution of the ecological factors is GIS (Geographic Information Systems), an instrument of information technologies introduced in the last years in viticulture too. The research presents a case study in which GIS is used to determine the geomorphological features of Husi vine growing center, the local variation of the slopes and the spatial distribution of ecological suitability in the vineyard, depending on these factors. The results show that, in relation to suitability of slope inclination and slope exposure, Husi center includes four areas with different suitability for vine growing. Of the total vineyard area, 42.2% (903.2 ha) has south and predominantly south exposure, the most favorable for vines, and 37.98% (814.58 ha) northern exposure, bad or limiting for vines. The slope analysis shows that 29.19% (624.2 ha) is suitable for high production varieties, and 70.81% (1515.6 ha) for quality wines varieties. According to the suitability of slope inclination and slope exposure, the most favorable for vine cultivation is SD4 area, that includes Recea and Galbena lands, while the worst for the vines is SD1 unit that includes Rusca, Schit and Ochi lands.