Tensiometers, gypsum blocks and water mark sensors are all good monitoring tools, but they are only as good as the manager. In addition to drip, plastic mulch increases water use efficiency on vegetable crops. Plastic mulch reduces potential evaporation, the downward movement of water and weed growth. Organic mulches can also be used both in vegetables, as well as fruit operations. Such mulches also provide the potential for soil improvement due to the addition of organic matter.
Organic matter increases soil water holding capacity.
Plastic mulch can be used to improve rainfall capture, thereby reducing pre-plant water requirements. These systems must be applied in early fall and must be used in cooperation with windbreaks to make them work. Weeds are severe competitors for water and nutrients. It takes about 80 gallons of water to grow one pound of weeds - if the weeds don't get the water, the crop has a greater chance of getting it. The method of choice today is probably some type of herbicide.