Plastic Mulch Film Colours for South African Farming
Black, black-grey and white-black Polygrow mulch films each manage light and heat differently. The right choice depends on the crop, season, region and growing objective.
Black plastic mulch
Black mulch blocks light from reaching the soil surface, helping to suppress weed growth and reduce direct evaporation. It can also warm the upper soil during sunny conditions. Actual results depend on climate, soil, irrigation and installation.
Black-grey mulch
Black-grey film provides the light-blocking function of a darker underside with a lighter upper surface. It may absorb less solar heat than an all-black surface, making it useful where growers want weed suppression with more moderate surface heating.
White-black reflective mulch
White-black mulch is installed with the white surface facing upward and the black layer facing the soil. The upper surface reflects light while the lower layer blocks light at ground level. Suitability should be assessed for the specific crop and season.
How to choose
- Crop and planting season
- Expected daytime temperatures
- Need for soil warming or heat moderation
- Bed width and irrigation layout
- Punched or unpunched format
- Required roll width, length and thickness
Polywrap manufactures the Polygrow range in Cape Town. Availability and final specifications are confirmed when quoting.
Related guides: How to specify plastic mulch film and plastic mulch for vegetable crops.