Mulching has emerged as a significant component of vineyard soil and canopy management due to its ability to regulate microclimate, preserve soil moisture, and enhance soil biological activity. In grapevine cultivation, microclimatic stability plays a crucial role in physiological processes such as transpiration, photosynthetic efficiency, and berry metabolism. However, variations in mulch type, thickness, and durability often influence their efficiency in modifying vineyard temperature, humidity, and soil chemical properties. This research investigates the impact of different soil mulching materials including organic, inorganic, and biodegradable options on the vineyard microclimate and soil physicochemical characteristics under controlled grapevine cultivation conditions. The research evaluates temperature moderation, moisture retention efficiency, soil organic carbon enhancement, nutrient retention, and root-zone thermal buffering. Emphasis is placed on identifying low-cost, sustainable mulches suitable for long-term application without introducing phytotoxicity or affecting grape yield negatively.
A field experiment was conducted using standardized vine spacing, varietal uniformity, and consistent irrigation regimens. Microclimatic parameters such as soil surface temperature, canopy temperature, evapotranspiration rate, and relative humidity were continuously monitored using sensor-based systems. Soil parameters including pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were measured before and after the mulching period. Comparative performance analysis of straw, dried leaves, gravel, black polyethylene, and biodegradable film mulches was performed using ANOVA and correlation modelling. The results demonstrate a distinct superiority of organic and biodegradable mulches in stabilizing soil temperature and improving soil nutrient conditions, while synthetic mulches were more effective in reducing evaporation losses but contributed to localized heating during extreme summers.
The findings contribute valuable insights for viticulture practitioners seeking to enhance environmental resilience and resource efficiency in vineyards, particularly under semi-arid and arid climates. Recommendations emerging from this research highlight the need for cultivar-specific mulch screening, integration with deficit irrigation strategies, and long-term soil health monitoring. The research underscores mulching as a promising, cost-effective approach to promoting sustainable grape production amid rising climatic variability.
International Journal of Geography, Geology and Environment
