Combining Improved Stock Unearthing Method and ancillary measurements to assess catch crops impacts on soil mobilisation in vineyards

Abstract

Many aspects regarding the reduction of soil erosion and the effectiveness of nature-based solutions, such as catch crops and their spatial distribution, still remain unknown. To address these questions, in this study, we utilized a combination of the Improved Stock Unearthing Method (ISUM), surveys of biomass and vine vigor, and soil profile characterization in a Mediterranean vineyard located in the unexplored viticultural region of Valle de Lecrín (Granada, Spain). Our findings revealed that the use of catch crops after cutting the vines did not lead to significant changes in soil properties along the profile, including organic matter, aggregate stability, and nutrient content, but there were positive results in reducing soil surface lowering in specific areas. These positive outcomes also correlated with the highest levels of vine vigor, measured by assessing the vine’s perimeter at three different heights. ISUM, utilizing the graft union as a passive bioindicator to assess surface lowering predominantly caused by soil erosion rates and surface changes, showed a sedimentation rate of 17.88 t ha–1yr–1. Under the vine these rates reached a total of 13.73 t ha–1yr–1 and along the rest of the inter-row area much lower values (4.16 t ha–1yr–1). We identified areas that are at risk along the inter-rows, assessed the effectiveness of erosion control measures (how much and where should be used), and gave some suggestions to take steps forwards to protect soil health and productivity.