Film mulching boosts wheat growth and water efficiency in arid regions.
A study in Northwest China looked at how using plastic film and less water affects wheat growth. They tested different levels of mulching and irrigation on soil moisture, temperature, and wheat yield. The results showed that using plastic film helped keep the soil warmer, making the wheat grow faster and use water more efficiently. The wheat also matured earlier under the plastic film. The best water use efficiency was seen when using both plastic film and less water. This study suggests that using plastic film and reducing water can help save water and improve wheat yield in dry areas.