UTILIZING HYDROGELS TO ENHANCE WATER USE EFFICIENCY IN AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES

Аннотация

Efficient water use in agriculture is essential for sustainable crop production, particularly in regions affected by water scarcity and climate variability. Hydrogels, which are superabsorbent polymeric materials, offer a promising solution by significantly improving soil water retention and reducing irrigation frequency. These materials can absorb and retain large quantities of water, gradually releasing moisture to plant roots as needed. Their application in agricultural practices enhances water-use efficiency, minimizes water loss through evaporation and leaching, and supports consistent plant growth even under drought conditions. This paper reviews the role of hydrogels in modern farming, focusing on their interaction with soil, plant development, and environmental conditions. It also addresses potential limitations such as cost, polymer degradation, and long-term soil impacts. Overall, hydrogel technology presents a valuable approach to improving water management inagriculture, promotingresilience and productivityin water-limited environments. Keywords: Hydrogels, water-use efficiency, sustainable agriculture, soil moisture, irrigation management, drought mitigation, crop productivity, superabsorbent polymers.