Plasticulture covers the use of plastic mulch films, drip irrigation tape, high tunnels and row covers in crop production. These materials warm the soil, conserve moisture, suppress weeds and extend the growing season. While it significantly increases production efficiency, it requires specialized equipment to lay and retrieve the plastic, creating a massive waste disposal challenge.
Heard on the job
We switched to plasticulture for the strawberries and saw a massive drop in weed pressure and fruit rot.