Effect of different mulching materials and weed control measures on growth of coconut seedlings under irrigated condition in Assam

摘要

An experiment was conducted during 2004-2005 to study the effect of different mulching materials and weed control measures on conservation of soil moisture, weed growth, microbial population and growth parameters of coconut seedlings planted in the main field at CPCRI, RC, Kahikuchi, Assam. The soil moisture content was higher in black polythene mulch followed by white polythene mulch and organic mulch. The growth parameters such as plant height, girth and number of leaves 12 months after treatment imposition were significantly higher in black polythene mulch followed by white polythene mulch and organic mulch. Polythene mulches, organic mulch and herbicide application effectively controlled the weeds around the seedling basin. The highest microbial population was observed under organic mulch.