Organic Mulching in Potato Fields: EcoStack Project Outcomes

Organic mulching in potato fields across Germany, Bulgaria, and Bosnia and Herzegovina (2019–2022) reduced pest damage, enhanced soil health, and supported biodiversity. Straw, triticale/vetch, or grass/legume mulches improved early soil coverage and reduced weed emergence. Mulching lowered aphid and Colorado potato beetle damage, especially in high-pressure years, and boosted ground-dwelling arthropods. Yields remained stable or increased. Site-specific application rates (2–60 t/ha) and adapted machinery (e.g., 1.5 m manure spreader) were critical. On-farm mulch production or farmer exchanges reduced costs. The practice lowered pesticide and fertilizer use, conserved water, and reduced labor through less weeding. Challenges included sourcing costs and timing. Overall, mulching supported sustainable potato farming with region-specific optimization.