3.7.1_Co-publication Using innovative legume-based mixtures as cover crops in a multi-functional olive system

The main objective of this experiment is to provide useful indications on sustainable management of multifunctional olive systems under Mediterranean rainfed conditions by analysing the effects of different soil management on olive trees. Two field trials were established in 2022 in Italy and Lebanon, using a randomised block design and comparing four treatments: (1) cover crop with innovative mixture (IM); (2) cover crop with commercial mixture (CM); (3) natural cover + fertilization (NC); (4) traditional soil tillage + fertilization (ST). The preliminary results referred to the first year showed a better establishment of NC compared to both mixtures, regardless of whether it is below or outside the tree canopy. The higher grass-based biomass produced by NC below the tree canopy may have influenced the competition for available soil water between the sward and tree components. Regarding the water potential of olive trees, during the period of greatest water deficit, ST showed lower levels of water potential and NC showed a significantly lower photochemical efficiency. Moreover, NC promotes a smaller fruit size while no significant differences emerged between the other treatments.