(A) Thickness :
Normally the thickness of the film does not affect the mulching effect except when it is used for solorisation. But some of the recent references do indicate the impact of film thickness on crop yield. Since it is sold by weight it is advantageous to use as thin a film as possible but at the same time due consideration should be given for the longevity of the film. The early mulch film used were of 60-75 micron (240-300 gauge) thickness, and today it is possible to have 15 micron thick film due to advent of film extrusion technology. These films are mechanically weak, as shown by their easy tearing when pulled tension.
(B) Width :
This depends upon the inter row spacing. Normally a one to one and half meter width film can be easily adopted to different conditions.
(C) Perforations :
The perforations may be advantageous under some situations and disadvantageous for some other situation. The capillary movement of water and fertilizer distribution will be better and more uniform under unperforated condition. But for prevention of water stagnation around the plants, perforation is better. But it has got the disadvantages of encouraging weed growth.
(D) Mulch colour :
The colour of the mulch affects.......
- Soil temperature
- Temperature of air around the plants
- Soil salinity
- Due to lesser quantity of water used
- Due to reduction in evaporation and prevention of upward movement of water.
- Weed flora - Black film
- Insect control - Opaque while film acts as golden colour and attracts insects