Mulch and Grass Cover Unevenly Halt Runoff Initiation and Sediment Detachment during the Growing Season of Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) in Croatia

Abstract

Hazelnut orchards are popular for cropping on sloped sites, which are often highly erodible. This study aimed to assess the impact of soil management and season in a hazelnut orchard on soil properties and hydrological response. Three treatments (Tilled, Straw, and Grass) were established in Munije (Croatia) on Stagnosol. In Spring, Summer, and Fall, a rainfall simulation was performed (intensity of 58 mm h−1 for 30 min). Results reveal higher water stable aggregate values were observed for the Straw treatment in all seasons. Higher soil organic matter (SOM) content was noticed for the Grass treatment in all seasons, while lower values were recorded for the Tilled treatment. Sediment loss in Summer was up to 650% and 1300% higher for the Tilled treatment compared with the Straw and Grass treatments. This study strengthens the comprehension of utilizing a permanent ground cover in hazelnut orchards as a sustainable practice, contributing to the mitigation of soil erosion processes and the improvement of soil properties. The Straw treatment is a viable option since it increases soil stability and SOM, consequently preventing high soil erosion.

Performance And Adoptability Of Mulching Technology To Control Soil Erosion: Case Study Of The Sebeya Catchment In Rwanda

“…Mulching plays a pivotal role in mitigating soil erosion by acting as a protective cover (Matisic et al, 2023).…”

“…It effectively reduces erosion rates by preventing soil detachment due to droplet strike and minimizing overland flow (Matisic et al, 2023;Shi et al, 2013).…”

Evaluating the Effectiveness and Adoptability of Mulching Technology to Control Soil Erosion: Case Study of the Nyabugogo Catchment in Rwanda

“…Mulching is an essential practice that helps to prevent soil erosion by acting as a protective cover (Matisic et al, 2023). By preventing soil detachment due to droplet strikes and minimizing overland flow, it reduces soil erosion rates (Matisic et al, 2023;Shi et al, 2013). Mulching also plays a significant role in enhancing soil health by retaining moisture and regulating soil heat.…”