Effect of sodium arsenite on arsenic accumulation and distribution in leaves and fruit of Vitis vinifera

Sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) was applied to two Vitis vinifera varieties, Aledo and Italia, for three years at a concentration of 1.25 kg NaAsO2 100 L(-1) applied by spraying or by direct application with a paint brush. Accumulation of arsenic (As) in leaves and fruits during these three years was not detected. Spraying resulted in the highest levels of As in the leaf with the concentration decreasing as the vegetative cycle advanced. The amount of As that accumulated in the plant was related to the proximity of the As application to bud break. The As levels detected in the eatable part (table grape) never reached concentrations that would be considered harmful to human beings.