Due to its positive effects, mulching with organic matter is a popular soil conservation
tool. However, opinions are divided on the effects of mulching on pests and pathogens.
Our research aimed to investigate the effect of organic mulch on potato tuber damage
caused by soil-dwelling pests and soil-borne pathogens. Therefore, mulching trials
were carried out at four sites over six years, comparing the effects of straw, walnut
leaves, mixed leaves, compost and two sowing methods (in soil, on soil surface, and
under mulch). The total yield of the mulched plots was equal (2013, 2014) or significantly
higher (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018) than the control, while the weight of damaged tubers
did not increase. Total yield was higher in plots mulched with compost, walnut leaves
and mixed leaves than in control and straw-mulched plots. The seeding method had no
effect on yield or tuber damage for any of the cover crops. Mulching potatoes with
organic matter, especially compost and leaves, is recommended, as their application
positively affected yield but did not increase the number of damaged tubers. Sowing
potatoes under mulch can reduce the digging work and cutting damage without reducing
the yield.
