On the loss regularity of water and fertilizer in sandy soil with abundance of underground water but lack of cultivated layer

Abstract

To explore the loss regularity of water and fertilizer in the ancient course of the Yellow River in cultivation of Chaenomeles sinensis and Prunus armeniaca × sibirica, three water management measures were employed: mulching with plastic films (Wmp), mulching with cornstalk (Wmc) and conventional management (Wck). Meanwhile, the effects of irrigation times, namely slow-release N, P and K fertilizer (NPK SRFs), compound N, P and K fertilizer (NPK CFs), urea fertilizer (Urea Fs), and unfertilized (Fck) were studied. Results showed that the soil water content was effectively increased using Wmp and Wmc, Wmp effectively extended the water retention time and soil temperature stability. After three irrigations, NPK SRFs, NPK CFs and Urea Fs were completely lost. The compound fertilizer had a significantly higher nutrient maintenance capacity than urea. Furthermore, the application of urea had to be balanced to avoid an excessive rise in soil pH. The growth of C. sinensis and P. armeniaca × sibirica was significantly better than traditional model. It is suggested to use crop straw to maintain water levels and improve soil organic matter, and replace urea by applying a compound fertilizer in the early and late growing season in sandy soil.