Trace metals mobility in vineyard soils estimated through soil column experiments and a lysimeter study

Various agrochemicals are commonly used in vineyard production and even if metals are not their active component, trace amounts still may be present in their composition. However, copper (Cu) is the main active ingredient in a range of chemicals frequently used in vineyards and Cu concentrations in the topsoil may progressively increase. Thus, estimation of Cu mobility in soils may prove as an important component of monitoring vineyard soils quality. Field trials are conducted on two locations: (i) on the flat coastal terrain (Baštica) and (ii), on a hillslope terrain of the Croatian continental part (Jazbina). Lysimeters were installed at both field sites and undisturbed soil columns taken for the assessment of Cu downward mobility through the soil profile by applying irrigation and a known metal concentration. Initial Cu concentrations were determined in soil samples from both sites. Water samples from lysimeters and leachate from soil columns were taken periodically and analyzed for Cu concentrations ; with the distribution of major Cu species estimated using chemical equilibrium software. Results indicate that the sorption and complexation processes with soil organic matter may be the major factor controlling Cu mobility in vineyard soils. Still, the possibility of Cu transfer in a form of complexes with organic ligands (e.g. dissolved organic carbon) through the soil profile by soil water preferential flow pathways and/or through surface runoff will be further studied.