Modelling of Water and Nitrogen Flow in a Rain-Fed Ridge-Furrow Maize System with Plastic Mulch

Soil water and nitrogen are two important factors in the agro-ecosystem of Loess Plateau, China. The ridge-furrow maize system with plastic mulch (RFPM) is a widely used measure to increase crop yield Plateau area. purpose this study was investigate effect RFPM on soil inorganic (N) distribution, especially regard risk dynamic losses, by using Hydrus-2D. conducted over consecutive years consisted treatments: (i) split application 2013 (160 + 60 kg N ha−1, sowing jointing stage) (ii) one-time fertilizer 2014 (220 stage). results showed that clearly illustrated Hydrus-2D, losses utilization. improved consumption both ridge furrow; content obviously fluctuating during growing season, degree fluctuation decreased as depth increased. NH4+-N concentration mainly accumulated surface layer +15–10 cm; highest concentrations were 69.12 104.62 mg·kg−1 2014, respectively. NO3−-N 130.86 198.20 There an exchange between furrow when urea applied furrow. caused high NH3 volatilization; they 20.40 27.41 ha−1 respectively, which accounted for 9.27% 12.46% inputs rate nitrite leaching higher than ridge. However, proper ratio would contribute reduction; amounts 18.13 31.26 8.24% 14.21% Our indicates, therefore, be more effective losses; suitable agriculture rain-fed area benefits water-use efficiency non-point source pollution reduction.