Site pages
Current course
Participants
General
Topic 1
Topic 2
Topic 3
Topic 4
Topic 5
Topic 6
Topic 7
Topic 8
Topic 9
Topic 10
Topic 11
Topic 12
Topic 13
Topic 14
Topic 15
Topic 16
Topic 17
Topic 18
Topic 19
Topic 20
Topic 21
Topic 22
Topic 23
Topic 24
Topic 25
Topic 26
Topic 27
Topic 28
Topic 29
Topic 30
Topic 31
Topic 32
Topic 33
Topic 34
Topic 35
EXERCISE 9
EXERCISE 9: USE OF INORGANIC MULCHES IN FRUIT ORCHARD |
Inorganic mulches are usually preferred in fruit orchards located in the high hill areas having cooler climate. It also helps in raising the soil temperature in winter, required for greater nutrient absorption and roots metabolic activities. However, inorganic mulches lack soil improving properties of organic mulches. Inorganic mulch: Black polythene (150 gauge), metal foil, gravel, stone etc. Aims:
How to and when to apply mulch Among the inorganic mulches, use of black polythene sheet of 200 micron thickness around the tree basins or in strips is common, keeping sufficient vacant space for working between the rows (Plate 9. 1). Plate 9.1: Black polythene mulching in apple plantation Time of application depends on what is expected to be achieved by mulching. Mulches used to moderate winter temperatures can be applied late in the fall after the ground has frozen but before the coldest temperature arrive. Observations to be recorded: Record observations on moisture content by gravimetric method and on the tree growth under inorganic mulching and draw conclusions. |
Last modified: Saturday, 7 January 2012, 7:28 AM