Effects of Organic and Inorganic Mulches on Soil Physico-Chemical Properties Under Temperate Conditions of Kashmir

Abstract

Mulching is a widely adopted agronomic practice for improving soil health, conserving moisture, and enhancing crop productivity, particularly under temperate conditions. A field experiment was conducted during 2020–21 at SKUAST-Kashmir to evaluate the effects of different organic and inorganic mulches on soil physico-chemical properties and moisture–temperature regimes under potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivation. The study employed a Randomized Complete Block Design with ten treatments, including six colored polyethylene mulches and three organic mulches, along with an un-mulched control. Soil parameters such as pH, organic carbon, electrical conductivity (EC), bulk density, available N, P₂O₅, K₂O, soil moisture, and temperature were assessed before and after the experiment. Results revealed significant improvements in soil properties under both mulch types compared to the control. Plastic mulches, particularly black and green polyethylene, reduced soil pH, EC, and bulk density while enhancing soil moisture retention and thermal conditions. Among organic mulches, farmyard manure mulch recorded the highest organic carbon, reduced EC, improved nutrient availability, and maintained favorable soil temperature and moisture levels. Overall, mulched treatments significantly increased available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compared to the initial soil status and the un-mulched control. Black polyethylene mulch and farmyard manure mulch consistently outperformed other treatments in improving soil hydrothermal regimes. The findings highlight the potential of both organic and inorganic mulches to enhance soil quality and support sustainable potato production under temperate conditions