In‐field evaporative protection for dryland wheat and lentil crops using polymers

In semi-arid cropping regions where rainfall is variable, stored soil water important for reducing the impacts of dry periods; however, in-season evaporation limits yield potential. We tested productivity benefits protecting wheat and lentil crops from using inter-row polymer cover, when grown in southern Australia. For wheat, white polyvinyl chloride (PVCw) increased by 50% (561 kg/ha) 11% (408 decile 2 (2018) 3 (2019) seasonal respectively; lentil, increases were 20% (443 2019. A sprayable alginate 8% (310 kg/ha). Total use 2018 was reduced (17 mm) PVCw efficiency (WUE) significantly 7 to 11 kg/ha/mm, whereas 2019, WU greater (47 PVCw, but WUE equivalent control (~15 kg/ha/mm). Colour PVC modified light available crop canopy temperature, a highly reflective cover (albedo 0.44) (~487 future, formulations polymers applied within dryland enterprises are likely provide production advantages, although logistical viability application potential environmental implications may define impediments adoption.