Mulch Effect on Soil Properties and Tomato Growth Using Micro‐Irrigation

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Abstract
Although use of micro‐irrigation has risen steadily in Georgia, few studies have been reported describing its effect on yield or rooting distribution of tomato (Licopersicon esculentum). The objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of mulch type (plastic mesh and straw) and micro‐irrigation on soil physical properties and growth of ‘Celebrity’ tomato. In 1986, an experiment was initiated on a Cecil sandy loam (clayey, kaolinitic, thermic, Typic Kanhapludult) at Griffin, GA. Tomato yield and root growth, soil temperature, and water potential in 1987 and 1988 were compared using black plastic mesh and straw mulches and three micro‐irrigation frequencies: control (no irrigation), daily, and twice weekly. Soil properties beneath the two types of mulches were compared in terms of surface evaporation, measured during 24‐h periods several times each year and bulk density, organic C, pH, infiltration rate, and cone index measured at the end of the 1988 growing season. Straw mulch resulted in a significantly greater infiltration rate, and lower pH, bulk density, surface evaporation, cone index, soil temperature and matric potential than the plastic mulch. Yields were higher under the straw mulch compared to the plastic mulch and irrigation increased yield with a straw mulch in 1987 but not 1988. Yields were not increased by irrigation of the plastic mulch treatment. Straw mulches have the potential to improve tomato yields in high‐temperature environments, provided soil pH is controlled.

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