Effect of Mulching as a Sustainable Farming Practice on Maize Cultivation at Faculty of Agriculture Kabale University.
This study investigated the impact of mulching as a sustainable farming practice on maize cultivation at the Faculty of Agriculture, Kabale University, with specific objectives to compare the effectiveness of combining mulching with other sustainable practices, assess its role in suppressing weed gr...
Saved in:
| Main Author: | |
|---|---|
| Format: | Thesis |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Kabale University
2024
|
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12493/2609 |
| Tags: |
Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
|
| Summary: | This study investigated the impact of mulching as a sustainable farming practice on maize cultivation at the Faculty of Agriculture, Kabale University, with specific objectives to compare the effectiveness of combining mulching with other sustainable practices, assess its role in suppressing weed growth and nutrient availability, and determine its effect on maize grain yield and soil health indicators. Mulching, a widely recommended practice for conserving soil moisture and improving soil structure, is analyzed in conjunction with other sustainable practices such as crop rotation and organic fertilization to enhance maize productivity. Previous research indicates that integrating mulching with sustainable agricultural practices can lead to synergistic effects, improving overall crop performance and sustainability. The effectiveness of mulch in suppressing weed growth and enhancing nutrient availability is a critical focus of this study. By reducing weed competition, mulch can increase the availability of nutrients for maize plants, leading to better growth and development. Studies have shown that organic mulches can significantly reduce weed biomass and improve soil nutrient content, providing a more favorable environment for maize cultivation. This research aims to quantify these benefits and determine the optimal mulching strategies for maximizing nutrient availability and maize yield. The impact of mulch application on maize grain yield and soil health indicators is assessed. Soil health parameters such as organic matter content, microbial activity, and soil moisture retention are crucial for sustainable maize production. Mulching is known to enhance these soil health indicators, leading to improved crop yields and long-term soil fertility. This study aimed to provide empirical data on the benefits of mulching in maize cultivation at Kabale University, contributing to the broader understanding of sustainable farming practices in similar agro-ecological contexts. |
|---|