Agrochemical characterization of soils from the ovche pole vine district: a case study from Tri Cheshmi and Dolno Trogerci

This study provides a physicochemical, and agrochemical characterization of vineyard soils in the Ovche
Pole Vine District, located within the Povardarie Wine Region of North Macedonia. Two representative vineyard
locations, Tri Cheshmi and Dolno Trogerci, were selected for comparative assessment based on their contrasting
geological conditions. The analysis focused on key soil parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC),
organic matter (OM), organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate (CaCO3) content, texture, as well as available
nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The soils in Tri Cheshmi, developed over Neogene lacustrine
sediments rich in marl and calcareous clay, showed alkaline pH, moderate carbonate levels and elevated EC,
reflecting a strong pedogenic influence from the carbonate-rich parent material. In contrast, the soils in Dolno
Trogerci, formed by colluvial-alluvial deposits with contributions from volcanic and metamorphic rocks from
the Vardar zone, showed greater textural variability and higher levels of CaCO3 content. The semi-arid climate of
the region, characterized by hot, dry summers and moderately cold winters, further shapes soil development
and fertility. This study provides a basic understanding of the physicochemical and nutrient-related soil
properties in the Ovche Pole Vine District and supports the development of site-specific sustainable vineyard
management practices.