Mulching Technology for Moisture Conservation: Strategies and Applications for Rainfed Area

Global climate change has significantly impacted agriculture by altering weather patterns, exacerbating water scarcity, and reducing soil health. Arid and semi-arid regions, which cover approximately 40% of the global land surface, face severe challenges in maintaining soil moisture due to high evaporation rates and erratic precipitation. Efficient water management is crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity in these regions, necessitating the adoption of water-saving strategies. Among the various solutions, mulching has emerged as a cost-effective and widely used soil management practice aimed at improving soil moisture conservation, reducing evaporation, and enhancing soil health. This review paper explores various types of mulching, their effects on soil moisture retention, and their role in sustainable agriculture. Organic and inorganic mulching methods are compared in terms of effectiveness, environmental impact, and economic feasibility. Additionally, the paper discusses challenges, recent innovations, and future prospects in mulch-based soil moisture conservation. Recent innovations in biodegradable plastics, hydrogel-based mulches, and smart mulching technologies offer promising alternatives to conventional materials, mitigating environmental challenges while maintaining moisture conservation. This review critically evaluates the benefits and limitations of various mulching techniques, highlighting innovations that contribute to sustainable agriculture and climate resilience, particularly in water-scarce regions.