Sustainability and resilience of the Douro vineyard region: the protection of natural resources, ecosystem services, and human wellbeing

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Effects of application of eucalyptus leaf biomass on soil quality: a field trial

Publication . Teixeira, Tiago; Cachada, Anabela; Pato, Pedro; Patinha, Carla

ABSTRACT: Approximately 30% of Portuguese forests are occupied by eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus). As this is a highly flammable invasive species, it is essential to control its proliferation. Thus, the PEST(bio) CIDE project, based on a circular economy perspective, aims to explore the phytotoxic potential of eucalyptus leaves, using its leaf biomass as an effective and environmentally safe biocide, and its use as a corrective to improve soil properties. It is also expected that the introduction of biomass into the soil will contribute to increase carbon reserves and soil fertility. Thus, it is possible to associate an economic benefit with better management of post-fire regenerated eucalyptus areas. Due to this, a field trial was carried out to test the effect of biomass application on the soil’s physico-chemical properties. The results indicate that incorporating leaves has a positive effect on some soil properties, mainly in terms of increasing organic matter and available macronutrients.

2025-04Journal article

Open access