Moisture monitoring:
Soil moisture conditions in the experimental field were measured by
gravimetric method taking soil samples by soil augar from depths at 15cm
increments i.e. 0 to 15 cm, 16 to 30cm, 31 to 45cm and 46 to 60cm depths. Field
moisture status was monitored at plantation, before and after each irrigation and
at harvest. Rain water that is retained in the root zone and used by plants was
considered as effective rainfall. (Harun-ur-Rashid et al; 1994)