Hello
I am wondering if it is a good idea to use rice husk as mulch in tree basins in an orchard with drip irrigation. The advantages may be reduction in weeding, somewhat lower soil temperature in summer and greater moisture retention.
Applied now, I am also hoping it will decompose by July when fertilization is due, so I don’t have too much going into the light red soil as husk.
I was also told that the disadvantages may be increased pest problems and increased heat produced by decomposition (which is the opposite of the lower soil temperature that I am aiming for).
I would be most grateful for guidance or information.
Thank you
Raghu