Living Mulch with Selected Herbs for Soil Management in Organic Apple Orchards

The establishment of living mulches in organic orchards could potentially improve the orchard biodiversity and, when specific plant species are selected, provide additional eco-services and functions, including adequate weed management. This study was conducted an organically managed apple Skierniewice (Poland) to assess effect two selected mulching species: Alchemilla vulgaris Mentha piperita. They were assessed on control, biodiversity, tree nutritional status, root dry weight density (RDWD), other morphological traits compared a natural soil cover (control). Overall, both produced 42.5% more biomass, increased number (+29%), coverage (+33%) control mowed plots. leaf chlorophyll index nutrient content higher presence than control. In addition, trees had 30–46% densities, even though not affected by treatments. results suggested that row can be with herbs; these have potential income farmer, as well beneficial effects for without impairing development status.