International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Rainfed farming, which is crucial for the nation’s food security, is seriously impacted by moisture stress. The present study was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Vizianagaram, during rainy season to evaluate the effects of mulching and hydrogel applications on the moisture conservation, growth and yield of finger millet. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with eight treatments, comprising three doses of hydrogel (2.5 kg/ha, 5 kg/ha, and 7.5 kg/ha) applied alone and in combination with crop residue mulch (5.0 tons/ha). Results revealed that crop residue mulch @ 5.0 t/ha in combination with hydrogel application at 7.5 kg/ha (T₈), 5.0 kg/ha (T₇) and 2.5 kg/ha(T₆) produced 22.2%, 14.5%, 9.3% higher grain yields, respectively as compared to the control. Crop residue mulch @ 5.0 t/ha (T₂) alone showed 4.3% and 14.6% higher grain yield and straw yields as compared to the control. The net returns, benefit cost ratio, soil enzymes (urease, dehydrogenase, acid and alkaline phosphatase enzymes) and soil microbes (bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes) were also found to be higher in these treatments. Therefore, it is recommended to apply crop residue mulch @ 5.0 t/ha (T₂) alone or in combination with hydrogel @ 2.5 kg/ha in order to improve the soil moisture retention, crop yield, profitability and also to maintain soil health.