Xanthan- and Gelatine-Based Composites Used as Nursery Groundcovers: Assessment of Soil Microbiology and Seedling Performance

In light of the significant impact of climate change, it is imperative to identify effective solutions to promote afforestation and reforestation operations, which are often constrained by a low survival rate. To mitigate the impact of weed competition and enhance water availability, biodegradable groundcovers comprising xanthan gum and gelatine were developed and evaluated over the course of the growing season in a nursery setting on narrow-leaved ash (Fraxinus angustifolia) and alder (Alnus glutinosa) in 3.5 L pots. The results demonstrated a beneficial impact of all groundcovers, particularly the gelatine-based ones, on both the aboveground and belowground growth rates. The efficacy of weed competition was controlled using gelatine-based groundcovers in the case of ash trees. Furthermore, the gelatine-based groundcover altered the soil physiochemical characteristics and affected the bacterial community while maintaining its role in increasing the soil nitrogen pool. In contrast, the xanthan gum-based groundcover was demonstrated to enhance microbial richness and diversity, with an augmented contribution to the soil nitrogen pool. However, further trials with diverse tree species and soil conditions are necessary to gain a more comprehensive understanding of these effects.