Aromatic plants as intercrops in viticulture - Consequences for soil biology

The presentation outlines first findings and preliminary conclusions on one case study of the Diverfarming project. The case study was established in 2018 when aromatic herbs such as Thyme and Oregano were planted underneath vines on steep slope vineyards in the  Dr. Frey vinery in the Saar valley, Germany. 

After one year of cultivation of aromatic herbs, which contain high amounts of plant secondary metabolites, we found interesting effects on soil microbial activity and the soil microbial community structure. In general, we observed a decrease in the microbial biomass and associated enzymatic activities in soil samples taken from the area underneath the cultivated herbs, whereas fungal indices (as determined by PLFA and fungi-associated enzymes) tend to increase. 

Further soil samplings carried out within the Diverfarming project will reveal, whether these patterns will be consistent throughout time and if there are significant differences compared to the control treatment (no additional vegetation, regular tillage, bare soil).

Since sustainable food production as well as preserving natural resources are crucially depending on healthy and living soil, our research will contribute to deepen our understanding of agricultural practices and its impacts on soil functioning and soil biodiversity.