IMPORTANCE OF MULCHING IN DRY AGRICULTURAL AREAS FOR SOIL MOISTURE STORAGE

Authors : Meryem KUZUCU

Pages : 16-27

View : 13 | Download : 8

Publication Date : 2021-06-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Mulching should be done to maintain the moisture and fertility of the soil, to reduce evaporation from the soil surface and to keep the root zone of the plant moist and cool. All materials used to cover the soil are called `mulch`. Mulching is known to have many benefits in plant breeding. In an area covered with vegetation under natural conditions, fallen leaves, branches, etc. Residues such as these form a natural mulch cover on the soil surface. By mulching; By preventing intense sunlight, the plant stays cool and at the same time weed growth is prevented. Tillage practices are reduced. This means less tillage costs and therefore soil structure is protected with mulch. Evaporation on the soil surface is reduced and soil moisture is preserved. The movement of salts in the soil towards the surface is prevented and the soil salinity problem can be reduced by mulching.
Keywords : soil, moisture, preserved, mulc, agricultural