Enhancing Maize Productivity through Mulching Practices in Semi-Arid Regions, Gujarat (India): Impact on Yield, Water Use Efficiency, and Economic Viability

Plastic film mulching (PF) was extensively used to improve maize yields, but its continuous application with ridge-furrow practices led to a significant depletion of soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil water storage (SWS). A study conducted during the 2018–19 rabi season on sandy loam soils evaluated the impact of different mulching techniques—Reflective Silver Plastic Mulch (RSPM), Rice Straw Mulch (RSM), Biodegradable Mulch (BM), and control without mulching (CK)—under irrigation regimes defined by IW/CPE ratios of 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0. The highest grain yields were achieved with an IW/CPE ratio of 1.0, with Reflective Silver Plastic Mulch significantly outperforming other treatments in grain yield (7086.57 kg/ha) and water use efficiency (WUE), followed by Biodegradable Mulch and Rice Straw Mulch. Reflective Silver Plastic Mulch also enhanced all major yield attributes, particularly when combined with the highest irrigation level, while the lowest values were observed under minimal irrigation and no mulch. The study concluded that irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 combined with Reflective Silver Plastic Mulch optimized maize yield, water use efficiency, and economic returns under drip irrigation.