“Mulch planting” is a cultivation method that involves using drip irrigation beneath the mulch film. For certain crops, combining drip irrigation with mulch film can enhance crop yield and water use efficiency by controlling soil temperature and moisture levels. Unlike traditional methods such as sprinkler or flood irrigation where plastic film can obstruct water flow, the use of drip irrigation under mulch film avoids such issues.
The application of mulch film planting is primarily motivated by the following reasons:
- Soil temperature control.
- Regulation of humidity levels.
- Soil moisture retention.
- Protection of fruits from water vapor damage.
- Weed control, prevention of pests, and soil erosion.
- Increased yield.
- Regulation of product market availability timing.
- Prevention of nutrient loss due to rainfall.
- Enhanced fixation of soil nutrients by beneficial microorganisms.
When using transparent or raised bed mulch planting, the irrigation system should employ subsurface drip irrigation to avoid issues such as expansion and contraction of drip tapes due to the accumulation of heat under the plastic film. It’s also important to note that mulch film may not be the most suitable cultivation method for all crops.
Characteristics of Drip Irrigation Tapes:
- Drip tapes ensure uniform water distribution, with water emission uniformity exceeding 85%.
- Drip tapes feature self-cleaning filtration windows, providing excellent resistance to clogging.
- Utilizing a labyrinth flow channel design, drip tapes offer certain pressure compensation capabilities.
- Drip tape emitter spacing can be customized according to user requirements.
- Drip tapes can be easily laid around mounds and bends, facilitating convenient operation.
