Application of Mulching in Agriculture: A Review
Bikash Bhattarai*
Dept. of Horticulture, Sikkim University, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India
Kabita Gurung
Dept. of Horticulture, Sikkim University, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Mulching, Organic, Soil health, Soil moisture
Abstract
The agricultural land is currently diminishing and experiencing a number of problems. The use of massive amounts of inorganic fertilizers and chemicals has completely degraded the quality of soil and ground water, which is just one of the numerous causes. A rise in global temperature brought on by climate change over time has an impact on energy and water use, particularly in dryland areas. Mulching has the potential to achieve the desired outcomes by preserving moisture, reducing soil evaporation, maintaining optimal soil temperature, suppressing weed growth, and promoting enhanced microbial activity. Thus, in this article an attempt was made to collect information about the application of mulching in agriculture.
Downloads
not found
Reference
Jacks, C.V., Brind, W.D., Smith, R., 1955. Mulching. In: Technical Communication No. 49, Commonwealth Bureau of Soil Science, Farnham Royal, England. p. 88. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2134/agronj1956.00021962004800030019x.
Qin, W., Hu, C., Oenema, O., 2015. Soil mulching significantly enhances yields and water and nitrogen use efficiencies of maize and wheat: A meta-analysis. Scientific Reports 5, 16210. DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1038/srep16210.
Sun, H., Shao, L., Liu, X., Miao, W., Chen, S., Zhang, X., 2012. Determination of water consumption and the water-saving potential of three mulching methods in a jujube orchard. European Journal of Agronomy 43, 87-95. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eja.2012.05.007.
Tanavud, C., Kheowvongsri, P., Yongchalermchai, C., Leowarin, W., Densrisereekul, O., Bennui, A., Murase, J., Kimura, M., 2001. Effects of land use patterns on soil and water quality in Khlong U-Taphao Basin. Thai Journal of Agricultural Science 34, 15-31.
Wilen, C.A., Schuch, U.K., Elmore, C.L., 1999. Mulches and sub-irrigation control weeds in container production. Journal of Environmental Horticulture 17(4), 174-180. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24266/0738-2898-17.4.174.