Mulching Effects on Water Productivity, Maize Yield and Soil Properties in Bed and Flat Sowing Methods

A field experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of mulching on water productivity, soil properties and maize yield (Zea mays L.) in bed and flat sowing methods at Research Area of Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. Wheat straw mulch was applied @ 8 t ha-1. Randomized complete block design with split plot arrangement was used. Four treatments with four replicates were used. A measured amount of irrigation was ensured using cut throat flume as and when required. The bed sowing with mulch interaction enhanced water productivity from 34 to 115% compared with other combinations. This interaction also improved soil chemical and physical fertility by increasing total nitrogen from 24 to 62% and decreasing bulk density from 4.4 to 11.0%, respectively compared with other interactions. The soil structure of beds was improved by 6.0% lower bulk density, 15.1% higher infiltration rate and 35% higher soil organic carbon as compared with flat sowing. In this short term study, the improved soil structure of beds with wheat straw mulch resulted in enhanced grain yield and water productivity in comparison to flat sowing with wheat straw mulch. Long term studies may be required to detect further mineralization effects of wheat straw on soil physical and chemical properties in relation to water productivity and crops yield.