Advantages of Plastic Mulching Sheets
lasagna muclhing films Mulch permaculture plastic mulch |
What is a Mulch?
Mulches are loose coverings or sheets of materials placed on the surface of the cultivated soil.
It is also called as lasagna gardening, sheet composting and permaculture gardening.
Basic concept is to place layers of nitrogen and carbon rich materials on top of the soil and break down naturally. Mulching sheet technique suppresses weeds and makes soil fertile.
It is best to transplant seedlings rather than seeding directly into the mulch as seeds can get lost in the coarse materials.
It is effective for vegetables, shrubs, perennials and trees.
What is meant by Plastic Mulch / Mulch Film?
It’s used similar to mulch suppresses weeds and conserve water in crop production. It is often used in conjunction with Drip Irrigation.
Advantages of Plastic Mulching Sheets
Soil Moisture Retention
Absorbs water from Rainfall and slows the evaporation from soil. Improved water retention reduces the frequency of irrigation.
Cost Control
Reduction of overall maintenance of labour
Soil Temperature
Mulching material absorbs sun rays and slows the temperature increase of the soil. As the temperature fall in winter, the layer of the mulch helps to retain heat.
Reduces Root Damage
Using plastic mulch creates weed free area around the plant, removing the need for cultivation except between the rows of plastic.
See also sprinkler irrigation
See also sprinkler irrigation
Weed Control
Mulch prevents the sunlight from reaching the germinating weeds so they won’t grow.
Soil Nutrients
The decomposed organic material such as woods, leaves adds nutrient-rich organic matter to the soil.
The decomposed material also improves the structure of the soil by adding space between particles in the soil.
Improved Crop Quality
Mulching films keep ripening fruits off the soil. This reduced contact with soil keeps the fruits and vegetables clean.
