Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part B (2025)

Mulching has emerged as a fundamental soil management strategy in perennial fruit crops, particularly in grape vineyards where maintaining stable soil chemistry is essential for sustained productivity and vine longevity. The application of organic mulches such as charcoal and sawdust can substantially alter soil pH, nutrient availability, microbial processes, and water retention, thereby influencing vine growth and grape quality. This research investigates the chemical influence of charcoal and sawdust mulches on soil pH and nutrient composition in grape vineyards under semi-arid conditions. Soil samples were collected at pre-defined depths following a randomized block experimental layout, and changes in pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and micronutrient concentrations were analyzed at multiple intervals throughout the growing season. The findings reveal that charcoal mulch moderately increases soil pH and enhances cation exchange capacity due to its porous structure and alkaline nature, resulting in improved availability of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺. Sawdust mulch, despite initially inducing slight nitrogen immobilization, contributes significantly to the build-up of soil organic matter and steady nutrient mineralization over time. Both mulches reduce soil temperature fluctuations and support moisture conservation, indirectly influencing microbial nutrient cycling. The research concludes that charcoal mulch is more effective in buffering soil acidity and enhancing macronutrient retention, while sawdust mulch demonstrates long-term benefits in organic matter enrichment and gradual nutrient release. Integrating these mulching practices provides a balanced approach for improving soil chemical health in grape vineyards, supporting sustainable viticulture. The research offers practical implications for vineyard nutrient management, especially in regions facing soil degradation and nutrient imbalance. Further long-term studies are recommended to assess cumulative effects on yield, fruit biochemical characteristics, and soil microbial diversity.