Combined effect of different amounts of irrigation and mulch films on physiological indexes and yield of drip-irrigated maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Exploring the effect of irrigation on biodegradable film-covered drip-irrigated maize is essential for sustainable agricultural development in arid areas. These regions, like Xinjiang in China, are home to suitable irrigation and biodegradable films. Through field trials, four levels of irrigation, and two biodegradable films and one common polyethylene film were set up to study the effects of different treatments on the physiology, growth indicators, and yield of maize. The results showed that the effects of irrigation and biodegradable films on the photosynthetic index and fluorescence index of maize reached a very significant level (p < 0.01). The effect of single factor irrigation and biodegradable films on the photosynthetic index and fluorescence index of maize reached a significant level (p < 0.05). The photosynthesis index, fluorescence index, plant height, LAI (leaf area index) and yield ofW3M3 treatment had the highest value, when compared with other treatments. TheW1M1 treatment had the lowest value. The photosynthesis index, fluorescence index, plant height, LAI, and yield of the W3M2 treatment were second only to W3M3. In addition, the output was only 40 kg ha-1 less thanW3M3. W3M2 has the best treatment effect from a perspective of sustainable agricultural development and efficient water saving; the optimal irrigation amount was 5625 m3 ha-1, induction period was 60 d, and thickness was 0.01 mm. The results of this study are of guiding significance for the promotion of the use of biodegradable films, search for suitable irrigation, and development of low-carbon agriculture.