Effect of Sawdust and Foil Mulches on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of Black Currant

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of sawdust and black foil mulches on soil properties, growth and yield of black currant (Ribes nigrum L.). A control (bare soil) was also included in the experiment. During three-year research, in all cultivation systems, there were changes in soil physical and chemical characteristics, including soil pH reduction, a decrease in coarse sand, silt and clay fractions, and an increase in fine sand fractions. The soil covered with sawdust had a stimulating effect on nutrient content (humus, N, P and K) and microbial count in the soil. Sawdust mulch favoured the modification of soil microclimate through temperature reduction and maintenance of moderate soil moisture throughout the growing season. The relationship of physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil in black currants under sawdust mulch contributed to an increase in fruit yield and bush growth compared to bare soil and foil mulch. On the other hand, black foil mulch allowed early soil warming and caused an increase in soil temperature and moisture during the growing season, which had not a positive effect on the tested parameters. The results indicated that mulching with sawdust is an effective method for growth and yield improvement in black currants.