Publication Date: 2023/06/09
Abstract: Mulch materials, whether organic or inorganic, prevent soil moisture loss, suppress weeds, improve and maintain healthy soil structure for plant development and yield. This study was carried out to evaluate the impact of mulch materials (Straw Mulch, Plastic Mulch and Neem Mulch) on soil moisture content, growth, and yield of lettuce as well as effective weed count with Zero Mulch as control. The result showed a significant effect (P < 0.05) of the mulch materials on soil moisture content, leaf area, leaf and weed count as well as yield in the form of fresh biomass of lettuce. The results suggest that the organic mulch (straw and neem) materials enhance the growth and yield of the lettuce plant better with an appreciable soil moisture conservation.
Keywords: Biomass, Chlorophyll index, Leaf area index, Neem mulch, Straw mulch, Plastic mulch, Zero mulch.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8021514
PDF: https://ijirst.demo4.arinfotech.co/assets/upload/files/IJISRT23MAY1922_(1).pdf
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