This study aimed to assess the variability of morphogenetic diagnostic indicators in irrigated gray-brown soils (Ganja-Gazakh sloping plain) and mountain-brown soils (Upland-Shirvan) cultivated with grapes and their effects on soil physical and agrochemical properties compared with uncultivated and winter wheat-cultivated soils. In gray-brown soils, the irrigated soil and grape production showed increased bulk density and structural compaction while reducing water-resistant aggregates. Under the 0–20 cm layer, bulk density rose from 1.12 g/cm³ (uncultivated soils) to 1.28 g/cm³ (irrigated vineyards). In mountain-brown soils, bulk density enhanced from 1.06 g/cm³ to 1.26 g/cm³ under grape cultivation. In all cases, the bulk density amplified with depth, being more pronounced in vineyard soils. However, the cultivated mountain-brown soils showed a higher humus and nitrogen content and improved aggregation than with soils under winter wheat. Although the fertility indicators were generally higher in vineyard soils, increased compaction and structural degradation heightened erosion risks, particularly under intense rainfall and irrigation. The results underscored the need for sustainable soil management in viticulture systems.
Grape, morphogenetic, soil fertility parameter, gray-brown, mountain-brown, morphological features
Long-term grape cultivation and irrigation have increased the bulk density and structural compaction in gray-brown and mountain-brown soils. The cultivated mountain-brown soils showed higher humus and nitrogen content and improved aggregation than winter wheat soils.