Mulches Effects on Soil Physical Properties i.e. Porosity, Aggregate Stability, Infiltration Rates, Bulk Density, Compaction

Abstract

Mulch is separating the soil surface from the atmosphere and is consider a layer of dissimilar material. A layer of mulch on the soil surface can affect different soil physical properties, for example enhancing the soil aggregation, reducing water evaporation, increasing infiltration rate and reducing runoff losses. Mulching can be organic and inorganic where organic materials have a positive impact on bulk density, one of the reasons for increased soil bioturbation from earthworm activity. Other positive effects of organic mulching can be improved structural stability and porosity. In this chapter the results of a range of studies concerning the effects of mulching on the physical soil parameters i.e. porosity, pore volume, void ratio, aggregate stability, infiltration, interception and evaporation, bulk density and penetration resistance are discussed.