Trifolium subterraneum cover cropping enhances soil fertility and weed seedbank dynamics in a Mediterranean apricot orchard

Abstract The soils of Mediterranean semiarid environments are commonly characterized by low levels organic matter and mineral elements, as well severe weed infestations, which, taken together, cause an intensive use auxiliary inputs (tillage, fertilizers, herbicides). Although cover crops recognized to sustainably improve soil health, the impact Trifolium subterraneum L. cropping needs specific attention. This research investigates for first time effects over 4 years T. spontaneous flora crops, after either incorporating their dead mulches into or leaving them on surface, (SOM), macroelements, nitrogen, microelements, seedbank dynamics indicators quality in apricot orchard. Compared a conventional management control, crop with burying mulch increased amount SOM (+ 15%), ammoniacal 194%) nitric 308%) assimilable P 2 O 5 5%), exchangeable K 14%), Na 32%), 16%), Fe Mn 28%), Zn 36%), Cu 24%), while it decreased size (? 54%) enhanced biodiversity. These findings suggest that may be environment-friendly tool enhance limit input supply orchards.