Summary
This field trial in northeast China evaluated biodegradable mulch film across three water-saving irrigation regimes (continuous flooding, drip irrigation, controlled irrigation), demonstrating that mulch film enhances soil microenvironment conditions to promote root proliferation. Continuous flooding with mulch achieved highest yields (9.4 Mg ha⁻¹), whilst drip irrigation with mulch achieved maximum water efficiency (1.25 kg m⁻³ water productivity). Root morphological characteristics, particularly during panicle initiation, showed positive correlations with water productivity and yield, indicating biodegradable mulch creates favourable soil conditions for sustainable rice production under water constraints.
UK applicability
The findings may have limited direct application to UK rice production, as commercial rice cultivation is not established in the United Kingdom. However, the soil conditioning principles underlying biodegradable mulch performance could inform research on water conservation and root development in UK cereal or horticultural systems under future climate scenarios.
Key measures
Rice yield (Mg ha⁻¹), water productivity (kg m⁻³), water consumption (mm), root length/weight/surface area (0-40 cm soil layer), soil temperature, soil moisture, net profit (CNY ha⁻¹), shoot dry matter
Outcomes reported
The study measured rice yield, water productivity, root morphological characteristics (length, weight, surface area), soil temperature and moisture, and net profit under different irrigation regimes with and without biodegradable mulch film. Root traits were correlated with water productivity and yield to assess their contribution to sustainable production.
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