This study found that temporally uneven rainfall distribution,
resulting in soil water stress (especially during the pre-silking
stage), was the major constraint on maize growth and
development in the area. GM and FM clearly increased
soil water storage and ensured plant water availability,
particularly during the early growth seasons; this mitigated
the negative impacts of water deficit and improved water
utilization. Consequently, both mulched treatments significantly significantly
increased the maize yield. However, FM was more
effective than GM in improving grain yield. These results
may provide valuable information for improving agricultural
production and water utilization in semiarid areas.