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| DOI：10.13522/j.cnki.ggps.2025119 |
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| Effects of mulching on soil water regulation and ecological improvement in arid regions in Northwest China: A review |
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YIN Wen, CHAI Qiang, ZHAO Lianhao, FAN Zhilong, HU Falong, ZHAO Cai, YU Aizhong
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1. State Key Laboratory of Arid Land Crop Science, Lanzhou 730070, China;
2. College of Agronomy, Gan su Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
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| Abstract: |
| Arid and semi-arid regions in Northwest China face critical challenges related to soil moisture retention, land degradation, and ecological sustainability. Mulching has been widely applied as an effective soil and water conservation practice. This review summarizes recent research on the effects of different mulching techniques on soil water regulation and ecological functions in these water-scarce regions. Based on a synthesis of domestic and international literature in the past two decades, this review categorizes mulching types-including straw mulch, plastic film mulch, gravel mulch, and biodegradable alternatives-and analyzes their impacts on soil moisture dynamics, temperature regulation, salinity control, and soil fertility. Additionally, it analyzes their role in improving crop productivity and enhancing ecosystem resilience. Mulching significantly improves soil water-holding capacity, reduces evaporation, and promotes stable crop growth. Straw and biodegradable mulches are more ecologically sustainable than plastic film mulches, which, despite their high water retention efficiency, can cause long-term soil degradation and environmental pollution. Gravel mulching, a traditional technique in Northwest China, shows strong performance in reducing surface runoff and preserving soil structure but may be limited by material availability and labor intensity. Mulching plays a key role in improving water-use efficiency and ecological conditions in arid areas of Northwest China. Selection of mulching type should be adapted to local environmental and socio-economic conditions. Future research should focus on the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly mulching materials, as well as long-term field monitoring to assess ecological impacts. |
| Key words: arid regions in Northwest; mulching measures; moisture regulation; ecological benefits; research progress; future prospects |
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