Heavy metal pollution in soil: a survey on west-central Sardinian long-term vineyards (Italy)

Many agricultural practices can affect fertility, and suitability of agricultural soils. The sustainability of a soil agroecosystem can be strongly affected by the presence of heavy metals (Knox et al. 1999; Giller et al. 1997). Copper is used since 1883 in agricultural activities thanks to its action against downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) on vineyards. Nowadays, its uses is widespread as copper sulfate (Bordeaux mixture) or combined with systemic fungicides. The long-term vineyards have received strong intakes of copper that can lead to accumulation in soils with possible repercussions on the soil suitability. Moreover, its concentration can be related with the age of the vineyards (Fregoni et al. 1984; Leonardi et al. 2002).