The necessity to increase food production while also improving the quality of our environment has prompted a search for materials to reduce wind and water erosion. This study offers a review of research and development related to the application, techniques, and volumes of several forms of mulch-crop residues, chemical soil stabilizers, and feedlot wastes (manure) that are needed to reduce wind erosion. A wind erosion control treatment that can withstand a 38.0 m/s wind measured at 15.2 m is successful. Mulching has become a common technique in modern agriculture. Mulch paper lowers the need of chemical fertilizers and herbicides, as well as weed control and maintaining the temperature of the ground. Over-mulching can generate an anaerobic environment in which fungal infections can grow in plant stems and roots (some are toxic to humans). When mulch is placed too thickly in the fall, rats may find a place to live and begin feeding on plant stems and trunks all winter. In some circumstances, the danger of pests as well as some soil-borne illnesses can be decreased by using plastic mulch. Organic mulches can break down in the soil and enhance the amount of organic matter and microbial activity there. These mulch coverings must be replaced over time since they decompose quickly. They enrich the soil with nutrients, reduce the pH, and are short-lived on the soil's surface. This article covers the published research on mulches and considers how they may be used to tackle the problem in agriculture.

Mulching, plastic mulch, water conservation, soil properties, weeds

The demand for horticulture crops has expanded globally because of globalization and rising health consciousness. Soil parameters such as temperature, moisture content, bulk density, aggregate stability, and nutrient availability increased when plastic mulch was used. Because of the altered soil microclimate, the plastic mulch has a favorable impact on plant development and yield. Even though it offers numerous advantages, farmers face challenges such as high startup costs and the removal and disposal of plastic components. To address these restrictions, photo and biodegradable plastic mulches can be utilized efficiently to maintain productivity while also reducing pollution caused by the usage of plastics.

Sanket Patil, Amol Pawar, Dipti Bisarya, Vinai Kumar, Sarvesh Kumar and Vishvajeet Jadhav (2022). Mulching: A sustainable solution for soil and water conservation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 619-623.