Influence of Different Cultivation Practices on the Properties of Volcanic Soils on Santorini Island, Greece

Abstract

The influence of cultivation practice on the fertility of volcanic soils on Santorini, an important wine‐producing area of Greece, has been examined. In conventional agriculture, weed control, typically of N‐fixing species, is carried out using herbicides, whereas in organic practice it is achieved though plowing, leaving the soil vulnerable to erosion. Soil samples were taken from conventionally and organically cultivated vines and tomatoes and from abandoned vineyards at five locations. Biological indicators of soil quality were measured in addition to physicochemical properties. The loam sandy soils had an acid to slightly alkaline pH reaction, with low organic matter. Earthworms (Lumbricidae) were not found. Enchytreids were absent from conventional soils but were found in low abundance in organic and abandoned vineyard systems. Enzyme activity showed no dependence on cultivation systems but was low compared with other Greek soils. Organic practices adopted on Santorini have maintained soil fertility in the short term.

Keywords:

• Organic farming
• volcanic soil properties