Effect of tillage and mulching management on the crop productivity and soil properties in maize-wheat rotation

A field experiment was conducted during 2005–2007 and 2006–2007 at Dryland Research Sub Station, Dhiansar to study the influence of tillage and mulching management on soil physical and chemical properties and crop yield on maize - wheat system under rainfed situations. Maize and wheat yield was statistically at par in conventional and minimum tillage and significantly higher over control. Increased in bulk density was higher in conventional tillage as compared to the minimum tillage. Reduction in infiltration rate was 17.24% higher in conventional tillage than minimum tillage. Minimum tillage improves the net return, benefit: cost ratio as well as fertility status. Application of plastic mulch resulted in maximum grain yield, infiltration rate and nutrient status than no mulch.