Effects of Soil Moisture and Organic Mulches on Corn Planted in Different Patterns

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Abstract
SUMMARY: In a two-year study the yields and water use of corn were studied under four planting patterns, with different soil moisture regimes and organic (paddy straw) mulches. Normal planting and irrigation resulted in higher yields and lowest water use efficiency, while double file planting in deep furrows (rafter method) gave greatest efficiency of water use but with a slight decrease in grain yield. Mulches improved water use efficiency by 50–60% and reduced irrigation requirements by four to six irrigations. Under limited moisture conditions a combination of these practices is likely to reduce irrigation requirements by half and to double water use efficiency.