Plastic Mulch for Vegetable Crops in South Africa
A practical planning guide for growers considering plastic mulch for vegetable beds, irrigation management and weed suppression.
What plastic mulch can support
- Reduced direct evaporation from covered soil
- Suppression of weeds beneath the film
- More controlled soil-temperature conditions
- Cleaner separation between produce and bare soil
- More deliberate placement of irrigation and planting holes
Mulch is not a replacement for irrigation planning, drainage, soil preparation or crop management. Its benefit depends on selecting and installing the correct film for the farm.
Questions to answer before ordering
- Which crop and planting dates are planned?
- What are the bed dimensions and row spacing?
- Will drip irrigation run beneath the film?
- Is black, black-grey or white-black film most suitable?
- Should the mulch be punched or unpunched?
- What roll width, length and micron thickness are required?
Installation and end-of-use planning
Prepare and level beds before laying the film. Confirm irrigation performance and avoid trapping standing water beneath the mulch. Hold the film securely and maintain suitable tension without damaging it. After use, remove contaminated material responsibly and use an appropriate recycling route where suitable facilities accept agricultural film.
Polywrap manufactures Polygrow agricultural film in Cape Town.