Using Mulch Film: Tips From Top Mulch Film Manufacturers
Mulching is an age-old agricultural technique to create favorable conditions for plant growth and development by laying a protective covering on the soil. Widely used in intensive agricultural production, mulching improves the bio-structure of the soil, thus enhancing the crop-growing conditions.
Originally, farmers and agriculturists would use natural vegetable mulching such as leaves, straw or moss as a natural protective barrier on the soil to retain moisture, maintain the right temperature, promote crop growth and yield and prevent soil erosion.
However, with technological advancements, today we have agricultural mulch films that are ready-made polyethylene films designed to serve the same purpose for modern plantations. Worthwhile to mention here is that biodegradable mulch films are also manufactured to reduce environmental impact.
Mulch Film Types
Mulch film manufacturers make different varieties of mulch films and classify them based on additives used in them, the density and colour of the films, designed for specific applications.
Transparent mulch films serve the regular purpose of mulch except for the prevention of weed growth, whereas black mulch is adept at weed prevention but is not suitable for delicate plants due to excessive heat transfer.
Silver mulch film manufacturers make dual-tone films that combine the best features of both transparent and black film.
With growing environmental consciousness, biodegradable mulch films are high in demand.
As per statistics, the global biodegradable mulch film market, valued at $33,699 as of 2016 is estimated to clock a CAGR of 9.3% from 2017 to 2023. Biodegradable mulch film manufacturers create films with materials like corn starch or lactic acid that are 100% compostable.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Mulch Film
The crop season can be advanced or extended with the efficient use of mulch films. However, your choice of the same is predominantly based on the temperature and humidity conditions required by the crop grown.
Climatic conditions also play a major role in mulch film selection. In an excessively cold climate, black mulch film would probably suit your crop best. Another factor to consider is the predominance of weeds in the soil.
Lastly, consider whether you are growing the crop outdoors or in shaded structures/greenhouses. This is because mulch films can alter the environmental conditions of the soil to a great extent. Consult agricultural mulch film suppliers to understand which films would suit your requirement the best.
Solos Polymers is one of the trusted agriculture mulch film manufacturers in India, supporting the cause of environmentalists and the interests of farmers alike by producing eco-friendly biodegradable mulch films. Contact us today for further information about mulch films for your modern farming needs.
