Closing the loop: vineyard and winery biomass for sustainable weed control

Abstract

Increasing regulatory restrictions on herbicide use and growing interest in sustainable viticulture are driving the search for alternative weed management strategies. This study outlines the design of a 2026 field trial testing the effectiveness of compost mulch derived from winery and vineyard biomass as a replacement for herbicides in grapevine inter-row weed suppression. The research is part of the CompostDiVinoproject, which applies circular economy principles by converting vineyard prunings and winery by-products into thermal energy to heat the winery and wine shop.

The field trial, conducted in a vineyard near Lake Caldaro (Northern Italy), will use a randomized block design to compare compost mulch with mechanical weed management. Response variables will include weed biomass and cover, vine vigor, soil moisture, and soil microbial activity. Prior to field application, compost properties – such as particle size, nutrient content, C:N ratio, moisture retention, and phytotoxicity – will be characterized.

We hypothesize that compost mulch will suppress weed growth while improving soil health, conserving moisture, and reducing input costs and environmental impact. If effective, this approach could provide viticulturists with a practical, sustainable alternative to conventional weed control, aligning environmental goals with vineyard productivity.