1) Introduction2) Mulching3) Types of Mulching4) Working of Mulch5) Advantages of Mulching6) Water & Soil Conservation by Mulching7) Conclusion

Main Characteristics of Arid ZoneLow Precipitation

High Temperature

Major Problems of Arid ZoneLess availability of Moisture

Soil Erosion

One of the Solutions to Problems

A mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of an area of soil.

Mulches are materials placed over the soil surface to maintain moisture and improve soil conditions.

“It is the type of mulching in which the mulching material is always organic.”

Organic residues, grass clippings, leaves, hay, straw, shredded bark, whole bark, animal manure, etc.

Organic mulches are temporary decay over time.

They add Organic matter in SoilIncrease water retention CapacityProvide Nutrients

In this form mulching material is always from inorganic source (synthetic) .

The material used in this type is usually stones, plastic bags , nylon sheets etc.

They do not decompose with time.

1) Moderates soil temperature 2) Reduces evaporation3) Stabilizes soil moisture4) Controls weeds5) Controls soil erosion6) Provides valuable nutrients as breaks down7) Encourages worms, which aerate the soil

Mulches Prevent from water loss by:

Moderation of soil Temperature Minimizing Evaporation Preventing Run-off Suppress water-stealing weeds Add organic matter to the soil Improve water retention capacity of soil

Mulches break the force of rain and irrigation water thereby:preventing erosionsoil compaction and crusting Mulched soils absorb water faster Improve Soil texture

Simplest and cheapest method to Conserve Natural ResourcesConserve Soil Moisture

Organic Mulch-----------------25%Inorganic Mulch---------------75%

Reduction in Soil erosion---------41-75%