Effects of Straw Mulching on Soil Temperature and Maize Growth in Northeast China

In China, corn is growing in large quantities, and a large amount of straw is produced each year. Improper straw treatment may cause environmental problems. Covering the fields after straw crushing can prevent soil erosion and increase soil fertility, which has become a recommended method of straw treatment. The effects of straw mulching on soil water content, soil temperature and maize growth traits were analyzed through comparative experiments. The results showed that straw mulching had heat insulation effect. In May and June, when the average temperature was low, straw mulching kept the ground temperature at a low value, resulting in late emergence of crops and poor growth in the nutritional stage. In July and August when the temperature is higher, the higher ground temperature is maintained, which makes the crop grow better in reproductive growth stage and yield higher. In addition, straw mulching makes the soil water content higher and has a positive effect on Maize Cultivation in northeastern China for Rain-fed agriculture.