Peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) perfection: Boosting yields with mulching

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of various mulching strategies on the growth and yield of peach crops, as well as on soil hydrothermal regimes, weed infestation, and microbial properties. A field experiment was conducted, implementing various organic residue mulches including locally available grass and pine needle mulch, as well as inorganic mulches such as black and transparent mulch, control treatment comprising blanket recommendation. Results indicated that plots with black polythene mulch showed the highest fruit productivity, fruit yield, fruit length and diameter. Furthermore, black mulch and mulch mat treatments demonstrated complete weed control efficiency. Weed species Anagalis arvensis showed the highest maximum frequency, density, relative frequency, and relative density, while Biden pilosa had the highest abundance and relative abundance. The study also found that the impact of grass and pine mulch was of interest, as it helped regulate soil hydrothermal regimes and significantly enhanced total viable count, microbial activity, and microbial biomass carbon. In conclusion, these findings emphasize the potential of mulching techniques to improve peach crop yield and soil health.