Plastic Mulch and Drip Irrigation Boost Cauliflower Yields, Conserve Water in India
In a cauliflower study from 2011 to 2013, researchers tested ways to boost yield and water efficiency. By using drip irrigation and black plastic coverings, they found that watering at a specific rate along with mulching led to the highest cauliflower yield. The best combo was using the highest drip rate with mulch. Interestingly, the most efficient water use came from a slightly lower drip rate combined with mulch. The mulch also helped keep the soil temperature steady, which is essential for good cauliflower growth. Overall, using drip irrigation and plastic mulch not only increased cauliflower production but also saved water, benefitting both the crops and the environment.