Effect of Irrigation Levels and Straw Mulching on Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Papaya under Drip Irrigation System

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a significant fruit crop cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. However, its cultivation often constrained by limited water availability soil moisture stress, which may significantly affect yield quality. This study aimed to explore the effects of irrigation levels straw mulch on growth under drip system. The experiment encompassed six treatments: three different (100%, 75%, 50% requirement) two (straw mulching no mulch). effect plant growth, yield, use efficiency was statistically significant. results revealed that applying 100% requirement along with resulted maximum height, stem girth, crown diameter, compared treatment. also evaluated efficiency, an essential aspect sustainable farming practices. indicated (58.47 kg m-3) recorded when met alongside mulch. Conversely, minimum observed completed without any