Response of Mulching on Soil Physical and Biochemical Properties and Functions

Abstract

The covering of soil surface, for creating suitable conditions for the growth of plants, either by organic or inorganic material is termed mulching. Mulching is found effective in soil and water conservation, weeds and salinity control, temperature moderation, reducing the cost of fertilizer and creating a suitable soil microenviron-ment for better crop growth and yield. This chapter highlighted different aspects of mulching including their types and nature. Secondly, the effect of mulching on the physical, biological and physicochemical properties of soil are considered parameters for determining the health of the soil. Thirdly, the impact of mulching on environ-mental conditions is also highlighted. This discussion made a skeleton for measuring the quality and health improvement of soil by mulching.