This document discusses mulching as a solution to problems in arid zones like low precipitation and high temperatures. It defines mulching as a layer of material applied to soil to maintain moisture and improve soil conditions. It describes organic mulches which are temporary and add organic matter and nutrients to soil, and inorganic mulches which do not decompose. The advantages of mulching are that it moderates soil temperature, reduces evaporation, stabilizes soil moisture, controls weeds and erosion, and provides nutrients as it breaks down. Mulching helps conserve water and soil in arid zones.

3. 1) Introduction
2) Mulching
3) Types of Mulching
4) Working of Mulch
5) Advantages of Mulching
6) Water & Soil Conservation by Mulching
7) Conclusion

4. Main Characteristics of Arid Zone
Low Precipitation
High Temperature
Major Problems of Arid Zone
Less availability of Moisture
Soil Erosion
One of the Solutions to Problems

5. A mulch is a layer of
material applied to the
surface of an area of soil.
Mulches are materials
placed over the soil surface
to maintain moisture and
improve soil conditions.

7. “It is the type of mulching in
which the mulching material is
always organic.”
Organic residues, grass
clippings, leaves, hay, straw,
shredded bark, whole bark,
animal manure, etc.
Organic mulches are temporary
decay over time.
They add Organic matter in Soil
Increase water retention Capacity
Provide Nutrients

8. In this form mulching
material is always from
inorganic source (synthetic)
.
The material used in this
type is usually stones,
plastic bags , nylon sheets
etc.
They do not decompose
with time.

10. 1) Moderates soil temperature
2) Reduces evaporation
3) Stabilizes soil moisture
4) Controls weeds
5) Controls soil erosion
6) Provides valuable nutrients as breaks down
7) Encourages worms, which aerate the soil

11. Mulches Prevent from water loss by:
 Moderation of soil Temperature
 Minimizing Evaporation
 Preventing Run-off
 Suppress water-stealing weeds
 Add organic matter to the soil
 Improve water retention capacity of soil

12. Mulches break the force of rain and
irrigation water thereby:
preventing erosion
soil compaction and crusting
Mulched soils absorb water faster
Improve Soil texture

13. Simplest and cheapest method to Conserve
Natural Resources
Conserve Soil Moisture
Organic Mulch-----------------25%
Inorganic Mulch---------------75%
Reduction in Soil erosion---------41-75%