Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
5.5.2.2
CONSERVATION OF SOIL MOISTURE
In order to minimize the losses of water due evapotranspiration, following
practices along with cultural operations like hoeing and weeding
can be
adopted.
5.5.2.3
IN SITU SOIL MOISTURE CONSERVATION
It can be achieved by increasing infiltration with the profile modifications,
mulching, keeping soil surface rough, contour trenching, interterrace
land treatment, etc., different in situ rainwater conservation measures are
trenching, catch pit, V-ditch, jalkund, micro catchment, pits with crescent
bunds, etc.
5.5.2.4 MULCHING
Mulching reduces evaporation of soil moisture, weed growth and prevent
drastic fluctuation in soil temperature and formation of soil crusts. Organic
mulches like bark, cocoa shells, compost, leaves, newspaper, peat moss,
straw, sawdust and wood chips can be incorporated into soil after every
crop. Now 100 micron thick polythene mulch film is used for tomato and
capsicum of these mulches, 5 cm diameter holes are made at desired spac-
ing for planting crops. Mulching with drip further enhanced the crop yield
to the tune of 10-20% and controlled weed up to 30-90% (Anon., 2001).
5.5.3 EFFICIENT UTILIZATION OF WATER
5.5.3.1
DRIP IRRIGATION
Drip irrigation is one of the most efficient irrigation methods for orchard
and plantation crop where it saves 30-70% irrigation water and increase
yield by 25-80%. Drip irrigation and mulching are helpful to combat
water scarcity. Micro irrigation is the system that provides water in and
around root zone of plant with help of emitters. A typical micro irrigation
system has dripper, distribution line and control head system. By a micro
irrigation, we can maintain optimum soil moisture in root zone of crop
