Organic mulches as an alternative for under-vine weed management in Mediterranean irrigated vineyards

Under-vine weed management treatments compared:

  • mechanical cultivation
  • mowing
  • almond shell mulch (15cm depth)
  • chopped pine wood mulch (15cm depth)

The researchers found that the mulches increased grape yields and reduced maximum soil temperatures. A 15cm mulch is an expensive input, but may reduce tractor passes in seasonal floor management and water usage due to reduced evaporation.