Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
population. Continuous use of organic mulches shall be helpful in improv-
ing the organic content of the soil and thus the water holding capacity of
soil shall also improve. In mango, citrus, aonla and guava, mulching of
tree basin with FYM, paddy straw, groundnut husk and locally available
materials have shown positive response in maintaining optimum moisture
improving physical and chemical properties besides keeping the weeds
under check.
3.6.6 IN SITU WATER HARVESTING
During rainy season the excess runoff can be diverted to tree basin in situ
or in suitable structures ex situ, which further can be used for life saving
irrigation. In sandy soils, in situ conservation while in heavier soils ex situ
conservation should be popularized. The in situ harvested water remains
stored deep into soil profile escape from evaporative losses and is avail-
able during critical period of crop. A number of catchment cropped area
ratios and degree of slopes have been standardized for dryland horticulture
crops. Percentage slope and catchment area have been advocated for fruits
like guava, anola and custard apple. Trenches of the size 5×1×1 ft. dimen-
sion made on the upper side of the tree basin across the slope have also
proved beneficial in custard apple at CRIDA for increasing the moisture
availability and yields (CRIDA, 1988).
3.7 FUTURE RESEARCH STRATEGIES
• Breeding hybrids, varieties, root stocks tolerant to heat and drought
stresses.
• Evolve cost effective water and soil management practices that con-
serve soil and rainwater.
• Studies on impact of climate change on dynamics of pests and dis-
eases of fruit and vegetable crops.
