MULCH TYPES AND THEIR BENEFIT IN CROPLAND ECOSYSTEMS ON THE LOESS PLATEAU IN CHINA*

Soil surface mulch is a very important component of cropland tillage practice. Different mulching methods have different effects on soil erosion, soil water storage, and crop yield. The objective of this study was to introduce the main mulch types used in production practice and their environmental and economical benefits in semi-arid ecosystems of the Loess Plateau. An analysis of each kind of mulch (straw mulch, soil mulch, plastic film mulch, and biological mulch) and application prospects on the Loess Plateau were done. Straw mulch and plastic film mulch were recommended in flat regions and biological mulch was recommended in hilly and gully regions. This paper proposes that straw mulch could replace the soil mulch as special machines are developed.