Phosphates
Definition - What does Phosphates mean?
Phosphates are naturally occurring and mined compounds made up of phosphate ions in addition to one or more elements, such as sodium, calcium, potassium or aluminum. Depending on the number of phosphorus (P) molecules, they can be classified into different groups. Phosphates play an important role in viticulture as they contain the essential element phosphorus that is essential to life.
WineFrog explains Phosphates
All plants require the essential element phosphorous to to live and grow, and grapevines are no exception. Phosphorus is naturally occurring and is popularly known for its bright green luminescence, however plants and vines cannot absorb naturally occurring phosphorus compounds.
Phosphates used in viticulture are mined, inorganic compounds that are used in fertilizer to adjust the soil chemistry. The addition of phosphates to vineyard soil, allows viticulturists to optimize the nutrients in the soils and make them bio-available for the vine. Phosphates help the vine regulate metabolic processes, and assist in how nutrients are stored and released throughout the vine.
