In order to determine the effects of super absorbent applied by different methods on soil moisture

soil temperature and maize growth

field experiments were conducted in the Hetao irrigation district

I nner Mongolia. Super absorbent was applied using the four methods of furrowing

mixing

broadcasting and holing in contrast to the case without super absorbent applied. Results showed that all application methods increased soil moisture

particularly there were significant effects at drought stage when maize is in tasseling-silking and grain filling. All application methods decreased soil temperature at seedling and trefoil stage and inhibited the growth of maize seedling. All application methods promoted maize growth from jointing to maturing

extended maize growing period

and increased maize yields and biomass

water use efficiency

w ater production rate and irrigation water production rate. Among the four application methods

the effect of furrowing was better and the effect of broadcasting was worse. Optimum application method of super absorbent should be the furrowing in Hetao irrigation district in maize production.