High-performance mulch films
Mico’s performance polymers provide a wide range of benefits that allow the fabrication of mulch films with improved toughness on tensile, tear and dart impact strength. These high integrity mulch films are easy to process and provide downgauging opportunities for a more sustainable solution.
When Performance is required, mulch films perform under the very toughest conditions by offering:
Innovation in Mulch Film
Due to the high durability at thinner gauges they can withstand all types of weather. Allowing the dart, MD tear, tensile strength and puncture resistance to be tailored to meet the applications’ needs, our film offers specific attributes:
MICO Xtreme Mulch film – offers an unrivaled property combination of extreme high dart, outstanding tear, and excellent tensile strength. Offers superior performance through high toughness, dart and tear.
Sustainability benefits
Thinner, but highly durable mulch films use less material and offer down-gauging and sustainability benefits. Maintaining film integrity in demanding conditions prevents damage during handling, installation and in the field, reducing the risk of waste and spoilage. After use, highly durable films ease the mulch recollection process, whether done manually or by machine, and the recollection rate can be improved, helping to reduce white pollution of the soil.
Advantages of Mulch Film
- Improved crop quality
Mulching can be explained as the method of covering the soil surface in the region of the plants to create congenial conditions for the growth of crop.
Plastic mulches keep ripening of fruits off the soil. This reduced contact with the soil decreases fruit rot as well as keeps the fruit and vegetables clean. This is beneficial for the production of strawberries, for example. - Reduction in soil compaction
The plastic mulch covering the soil decreases the crusting effect of rain and sunlight. The reduction in weed quantity means a decreased need for mechanical cultivation. Weed control between beds of plastic can be done using directly applied herbicides and through mechanical means. The soil underneath the plastic mulch stays loose and well aerated. This increases the amount of oxygen in the soil and aids in microbial activity. - Reduction in root damage
The use of plastic mulch creates a practically weed free area around the plant, removing the need for cultivation except between the rows of plastic. Root damage associated with cultivation is therefore eliminated. Due to these factors, the use of plastic mulch can lead to an improvement in the overall growth of the plant.
- Weed management
Plastic mulches prevent sunlight from reaching the soil directly, which can inhibit most annual and perennial weeds. Clear plastics do not prevent weed growth. Holes in the mulch for plants tend to be the only pathway for weeds to grow.
- Soil moisture retention
Plastic mulches reduce the amount of water lost from the soil due to evaporation. This means less water will be needed for irrigation. Plastic mulches also aid in evenly distributing moisture to the soil which reduces plant stress.
Types of Mulch film
- Black mulch film: The most common type of mulch film, black mulch film absorbs heat from the sun and warms the soil. This is ideal for crops that require warm soil temperatures, such as tomatoes, peppers, and squash.
- Clear mulch film: Clear mulch film allows sunlight to penetrate the soil, which is beneficial for crops that require cooler soil temperatures, such as lettuce and spinach.
- Silver mulch film: Silver mulch film reflects sunlight away from the soil, which helps to keep the soil cool. This is ideal for crops that are sensitive to heat stress, such as strawberries and grapes.
- Biodegradable mulch film: Biodegradable mulch film is made from materials that break down naturally in the soil. This is a more environmentally friendly option than traditional mulch film, but it is not as durable.
How to choose the right Mulch film
- Consider the clim ate you live in. If you live in a cold climate, you will need a film that is well-insulated. If you live in a hot climate, you will need a film that is reflective.
- Consider the type of plants you will be growing. Some plants need more light than others.
How to care for Mulch film
- Inspect the film regularly for tears or holes. If you find any damage, repair it immediately with duct tape or patching compound.
- Remove any weeds that grow under the film. Weeds can compete with your crops for nutrients and water, and they can also harbor pests and diseases.
- Water your plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Mulch film can help to conserve water, but it is still important to water your plants regularly.
- Do not cultivate the soil under the film. This can damage the film and make it less effective.
- Remove the film at the end of the growing season. This will allow the soil to aerate and decompose.
Here are some additional tips for taking care of specific types of mulch films
- Black mulch film: Black mulch film absorbs heat from the sun, so it is important to water your plants regularly to prevent them from becoming too hot.
- Clear mulch film: Clear mulch film allows sunlight to penetrate the soil, so it is important to use it with crops that require cooler soil temperatures.
- Silver mulch film: Silver mulch film reflects sunlight away from the soil, so it is important to use it with crops that are sensitive to heat stress.
- Biodegradable mulch film: Biodegradable mulch film breaks down naturally in the soil, so it is not necessary to remove it at the end of the growing season.
SPECIFICATIONS OF MULCH FILM
Thickness: 15 micron to 100 micron
Width: 2 ft to 8 ft / 0.6 mtrs to 2.4 mtrs.
Length: 400 mtrs to 1000 mtrs
Film Appearance: Transparent, Black, Silver-black, Black-white
Available with ready holes (perforation) for drainage. Custom sizes are also available on request
Mulch film is a versatile tool that can be used to improve crop yields and quality. It is a sustainable agricultural practice that can help to conserve water, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Mulch film is a valuable tool for farmers of all sizes. It is a relatively inexpensive way to improve crop yields and quality. Mulch film is also a sustainable agricultural practice that can help to conserve resources and protect the environment. I encourage you to learn more about mulch film and consider using it on your farm.
