Agave webert Agro-Mats for Water Conservation

Abstract

Agriculture consumes water in major quantity to fulfill its needs. To conserve and save the water, its careful application with special attention is required, especially in farming. When farming was carried out with modern techniques, it may fulfill this requisite. Today agro-tech products are in good demand and supply, which includes mulch mat, bird net, shade net, sacks, packing, and winnowing, etc, If properly used these technical textiles will improve the quality of farm needs. Natural fibers have better insulation properties under moist condition than polypropylene/ polyethylene. Hence, in the present study, Sisal agro-mats were analyzed against black sheet and control sample to test the water conservation levels in soil with pH 7.1 of the Croton plant (Codiaeum variegatum). Agro-mats were prepared in three thicknesses (1, 2 and 3mm). Sisal 3mm agro-mats conserves soil moisture content to 40-50 percent compared to black sheet and control, which does give spaces to flow air, which dries out the soil. Being economically viable, agro-mats with 2 mm holds comparatively less moisture content are suitable to apply at nursery level where regular watering is needed.