M. Ngouajio¹*, R. Auras², R. T. Fernandez¹, M. Rubino², J. Count¹, T. Kijchavengkul^2
1Department of Horticulture, Plant & Soil Science Building,
²School of Packaging, Packaging Building
Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 E: ngouajio@msu.edu

Abstract. Removal and disposal of used low-density polyethylene (LDPE) mulch in vegetable production represent a high economic and environmental cost to society. This study was conducted in 2006 and 2007 at Michigan State University to test the field performance (soil temperature, weed populations, and yield) of new biodegradable mulches using ¡¥Mountain Fresh Plus¡¦ tomato as a model crop. . The treatments included two biodegradable mulches (black and white) with two thicknesses (35 ƒÝm and 25 ƒÝm). A conventional LDPE mulch of 25 ƒÝm was included as a control (normal practice). Data loggers were installed 2 cm in the soil under the various mulches to record soil temperature. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with four replications. The mulches were used on a raised bed, drip irrigation system and were installed manually. Weed density and biomass were assessed during the seasons. Tomatoes were harvested at maturity and fruit graded according to market specifications. Results indicate that soil temperature under the biodegradable mulches was greater than that under the LPDE mulch during the first week. Starting the second week, soil temperature dropped gradually under all the biodegradable mulches. The drop in temperature was greatest with the white mulch. Due to premature breakdown of the white mulch, weed pressure was high, resulting in smaller plants with low yield in 2007. Tomato growth, yield, and fruit quality from the black mulch was equivalent to that in the LDPE mulch. Future studies will test mechanical laying of the black biodegradable mulch under commercial production.

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