Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Peer-reviewed

Enhancing crop yield and conserving soil moisture through mulching practices in dryland agriculture

Addis Hailu Demo; Girma Asefa Bogale

Frontiers in Agronomy · 2024

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Summary

Dryland agriculture requires the efficient utilization of water resources and the implementation of water-conserving technologies. Mulching is a water conservation practice used in arid land areas to preserve soil moisture, control temperature, and minimize soil evaporation rates. Organic mulching minimizes soil deterioration, enhances organic matter, and boosts the soil’s ability to retain water. Mulching can help keep moisture in the root zone, allowing plants to receive water for extended periods. Mulching with composted yard waste led to higher soil nutrient levels, including phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and organic matter when compared to uncovered soil. Under plastic mulch, soluble nutrients such as nitrate (NO 3 − ), ammonium (NH 4 + ), calcium (Ca 2+ ), magnesium (M

Source type
Peer-reviewed study
DOI
10.3389/fagro.2024.1361697
Catalogue ID
NRmo9zxr64-024
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