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Effects of mulching with rice straw on soil chemical properties and its influence on the performance of Hevea
The effects of mulching with rice straw on changes in soil chemical properties and its influence on growth and yield performance of Hevea under pot and field conditions were studied. The pot experiment revealed that the soil K and Mg content increased significantly with time, suggesting the presence of readily available K and Mg in the straw. The P content increased up to the 6^th week and decreased thereafter. The levels of N, Mn, and Fe also increased whereas the Zn content showed a declining trend. Soil analysis after six years of application of straw indicated a gradual build up of organic C, N, K, P and Mg levels. Mulching also improved the cation exchange capacity of the soil. Girthing during immature period and tappability at the end of 6 years were much higher in mulched fields compared to other management practices viz. Naturals and legumes. Similarly, the residual effect of mulching has resulted in higher girth increment and better latex yields during the first 8 years of tapping. The response surface analysis indicates a variation in the optimum N, P, K levels according to management practices. It further reveals a 12-month reduction in immaturity period and an additional increase in yield of 158 kg ha^-1 yr^-1 due to application of rice straw together with optimum NPK levels.