# Growth and Yield of Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) as Influenced by Different Coloured Plastic Mulches in the Tarai Region of Uttarakhand

Vatsala Tewari, Swagat Ranjan Behera, Riya Pandey, Priyanka Panwar

► To cite this version:

Vatsala Tewari, Swagat Ranjan Behera, Riya Pandey, Priyanka Panwar. Growth and Yield of Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) as Influenced by Different Coloured Plastic Mulches in the Tarai Region of Uttarakhand. Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 2024, 30 (6), pp.157-164. 10.9734/jsrr/2024/v30i62029. hal-04559592

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# Growth and Yield of Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) as Influenced by Different Coloured Plastic Mulches in the Tarai Region of Uttarakhand

Vatsala Tewari, Swagat Ranjan Behera, Riya Pandey, Priyanka Panwar

► To cite this version:

Vatsala Tewari, Swagat Ranjan Behera, Riya Pandey, Priyanka Panwar. Growth and Yield of Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) as Influenced by Different Coloured Plastic Mulches in the Tarai Region of Uttarakhand. Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 2024, 30 (6), pp.157-164. 10.9734/jsrr/2024/v30i62029. hal-04559592

HAL Id: hal-04559592

https://hal.science/hal-04559592v1

Submitted on 26 Apr 2024

HAL is a multi-disciplinary open access
archive for the deposit and dissemination of sci-
entific research documents, whether they are pub-
lished or not. The documents may come from
teaching and research institutions in France or
abroad, or from public or private research centers.

L'archive ouverte pluridisciplinaire HAL, est
destinée au dépôt et à la diffusion de documents
scientifiques de niveau recherche, publiés ou non,
émanant des établissements d'enseignement et de
recherche français ou étrangers, des laboratoires
publics ou privés.

<figure><img src="image_1.png" /></figure>

Distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
<figure><img src="image_2.png" /></figure>

# Growth and Yield of Summer Squash
(*Cucurbita pepo* L.) as Influenced by
Different Coloured Plastic Mulches in
the *Tarai* Region of Uttarakhand

Vatsala Tewari<sup>a</sup>, Swagat Ranjan Behera<sup>a*</sup>, Riya Pandey<sup>a</sup>
and Priyanka Panwar<sup>a</sup>

**Authors' contributions**

This work was carried out in collaboration among all authors. All authors read and approved the final
manuscript.

**Article Information**

DOI: 10.9734/JSRR/2024/v30i62029

**Open Peer Review History:**

This journal follows the Advanced Open Peer Review policy. Identity of the Reviewers, Editor(s) and additional Reviewers, peer review comments, different versions of the manuscript, comments of the editors, etc are available here:

https://www.sdiarticle5.com/review-history/116417

**Original Research Article**

Received: 19/02/2024

Accepted: 23/04/2024

Published: 25/04/2024

**ABSTRACT**

Summer squash is a short-duration vegetable crop with off-season nature and high economic returns per unit area. However, the early crop growth season encounters a number of abiotic stresses like low temperature and frost, which adversely affect the marketable yield and quality of the fruits. This dependency on natural factors restricts the scope of its profitable cultivation, thereby making it necessary to bring more area under protected cultivation. Coloured plastic mulches are an important component of protected cultivation, which are designed to modify the microclimate at the plant and soil levels so as to increase crop production and productivity, as well as quality of the produce, to meet the demands of the consumers. Keeping these considerations in view, the present field investigation was conducted at the Vegetable Research Centre of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) during the rabi season of 2019-20 to study

<footnote><sup>a</sup> Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand-263145, India.</footnote>

<footnote>*Corresponding author: E-mail: swgtbehera@gmail.com;</footnote>
<figure><img src="image_2.png" /></figure>

# Growth and Yield of Summer Squash
(*Cucurbita pepo* L.) as Influenced by
Different Coloured Plastic Mulches in
the *Tarai* Region of Uttarakhand

Vatsala Tewari<sup>a</sup>, Swagat Ranjan Behera<sup>a*</sup>, Riya Pandey<sup>a</sup>
and Priyanka Panwar<sup>a</sup>

## Authors' contributions

This work was carried out in collaboration among all authors. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

## Article Information

DOI: 10.9734/JSRR/2024/v30i62029

**Open Peer Review History:**
This journal follows the Advanced Open Peer Review policy. Identity of the Reviewers, Editor(s) and additional Reviewers, peer review comments, different versions of the manuscript, comments of the editors, etc are available here: https://www.sdiarticle5.com/review-history/116417

## Original Research Article

Received: 19/02/2024

Accepted: 23/04/2024

Published: 25/04/2024

## ABSTRACT

Summer squash is a short-duration vegetable crop with off-season nature and high economic returns per unit area. However, the early crop growth season encounters a number of abiotic stresses like low temperature and frost, which adversely affect the marketable yield and quality of the fruits. This dependency on natural factors restricts the scope of its profitable cultivation, thereby making it necessary to bring more area under protected cultivation. Coloured plastic mulches are an important component of protected cultivation, which are designed to modify the microclimate at the plant and soil levels so as to increase crop production and productivity, as well as quality of the produce, to meet the demands of the consumers. Keeping these considerations in view, the present field investigation was conducted at the Vegetable Research Centre of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) during the rabi season of 2019-20 to study

<footnote><sup>a</sup> Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand-263145, India.</footnote>

<footnote>*Corresponding author: E-mail: swgtbehera@gmail.com;</footnote>
the effect of different coloured plastic mulches on the growth and yield of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.). The experiment comprised nine treatments (bi-coloured plastic mulches) replicated thrice in a randomised block design. Results revealed that use of different coloured plastic films significantly influenced the growth and yield parameters of summer squash. Red coloured plastic mulch (V₁) recorded the maximum values for fruit length (30.78 cm), fruit yield plant⁻¹ (1975.8 g), fruit yield plot⁻¹ (39.51 kg) and total marketable fruit yield (365.52 q ha⁻¹), while biodegradable film of silver-black colour (V₇) and black plastic mulch (V₄) recorded the maximum plant height (cm) and plant spread (cm), respectively. The maximum diameter of the fruit (110.13 mm) was recorded under black coloured plastic mulch. Considering the prevalent climatic conditions of the *tarai* region of Uttarakhand, red coloured plastic mulch can be recommended for commercial cultivation of summer squash for obtaining higher fruit yields.

Keywords: Coloured plastic; mulch; summer squash; growth; yield; biodegradable film; fruit yield; vegetables.

# 1. INTRODUCTION

With the increasing demand of vegetables and health consciousness among people, it has become imperative for the growers to produce more as well as good-quality vegetables to sustain in the local, national and international markets. Apart from relying on high yielding varieties (HYVs) and good agricultural practices (GAPs), there is a need to effectively and economically utilise the resources by low-cost technologies. Of late, mulch has become one of the most effective technologies for optimum growth, yield and quality enhancement of vegetable crops besides reducing the cost of production.

The English word “mulch” is derived from the German word “molsch” meaning soft, beginning to decay. Mulches may also be defined as materials that are applied to, or grow upon, the soil surface [1]. Mulches have a significant role in improving soil physical, chemical and biological properties, enhancing crop productivity, protecting the crop from freezing and preventing drought stress [2-4]. Mulching is a cropping practice that entails covering the soil around (close to) plants, with organic or synthetic materials, to provide a more favourable environment for their growth and development [5]. Organic mulches, which include straws, husks, wood chips, leaves, grasses and cover crops (live mulches), saw dust, compost and manures [6], are the most commonly utilised mulches in the developing countries; however, they are subjected to decomposition, and are labour-intensive, less efficient and highly dependent upon weather and location.

The development of polyethylene as plastic film in 1938 and its introduction as plastic mulch in the 1950s significantly enhanced commercial vegetable crop production [7]. Different types of coloured plastic mulches are used with different formulations for different purposes. Previously, only black, white and transparent plastic mulches were used for vegetable farming, but the colours known today are black, white, red, brown, silver, yellow and blue. These colours affect crop physiology with their role in light absorption. For instance, black plastic mulch absorbs ultraviolet (UV), visible and infrared wavelengths of solar radiation effectively, thereby increasing soil temperature. White plastic mulch is just the opposite of black mulch; it cools the soil and is mostly used in crops that require less soil temperature [7,8]. Red plastic mulch absorbs solar radiation more efficiently than black, blue, green and yellow plastic mulches. The solar radiation transmittance follows the order of transparent>red>green>yellow>blue>black plastic mulch [9], while as per some studies, red>transparent>green>blue>yellow>black is the order of energy balance [10]. Coloured plastic mulches are designed to modify the microclimate at the plant and soil levels so as to increase crop production and productivity.

Summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.), also known as bush squash, courgette, vegetable marrow, Chappan Kaddu, Vilayati Kaddu, and commonly known as zucchini, performs well in cool and moist climatic conditions, and requires approximately 16 to 27°C for its proper growth and development [11]. The *tarai* region of Uttarakhand has a great potential for this vegetable owing to its short duration, easier cultivation and off-season nature with higher economic returns per unit area. To achieve high fruit yield, this crop requires adequate soil
the effect of different coloured plastic mulches on the growth and yield of summer squash (*Cucurbita pepo* L.). The experiment comprised nine treatments (bi-coloured plastic mulches) replicated thrice in a randomised block design. Results revealed that use of different coloured plastic films significantly influenced the growth and yield parameters of summer squash. Red coloured plastic mulch (V₁) recorded the maximum values for fruit length (30.78 cm), fruit yield plant⁻¹ (1975.8 g), fruit yield plot⁻¹ (39.51 kg) and total marketable fruit yield (365.52 q ha⁻¹), while biodegradable film of silver-black colour (V₇) and black plastic mulch (V₄) recorded the maximum plant height (cm) and plant spread (cm), respectively. The maximum diameter of the fruit (110.13 mm) was recorded under black coloured plastic mulch. Considering the prevalent climatic conditions of the *tarai* region of Uttarakhand, red coloured plastic mulch can be recommended for commercial cultivation of summer squash for obtaining higher fruit yields.

Keywords: Coloured plastic; mulch; summer squash; growth; yield; biodegradable film; fruit yield; vegetables.

# 1. INTRODUCTION

With the increasing demand of vegetables and health consciousness among people, it has become imperative for the growers to produce more as well as good-quality vegetables to sustain in the local, national and international markets. Apart from relying on high yielding varieties (HYVs) and good agricultural practices (GAPs), there is a need to effectively and economically utilise the resources by low-cost technologies. Of late, mulch has become one of the most effective technologies for optimum growth, yield and quality enhancement of vegetable crops besides reducing the cost of production.

The English word “mulch” is derived from the German word “molsch” meaning soft, beginning to decay. Mulches may also be defined as materials that are applied to, or grow upon, the soil surface [1]. Mulches have a significant role in improving soil physical, chemical and biological properties, enhancing crop productivity, protecting the crop from freezing and preventing drought stress [2-4]. Mulching is a cropping practice that entails covering the soil around (close to) plants, with organic or synthetic materials, to provide a more favourable environment for their growth and development [5]. Organic mulches, which include straws, husks, wood chips, leaves, grasses and cover crops (live mulches), saw dust, compost and manures [6], are the most commonly utilised mulches in the developing countries; however, they are subjected to decomposition, and are labour-intensive, less efficient and highly dependent upon weather and location.

The development of polyethylene as plastic film in 1938 and its introduction as plastic mulch in the 1950s significantly enhanced commercial vegetable crop production [7]. Different types of coloured plastic mulches are used with different formulations for different purposes. Previously, only black, white and transparent plastic mulches were used for vegetable farming, but the colours known today are black, white, red, brown, silver, yellow and blue. These colours affect crop physiology with their role in light absorption. For instance, black plastic mulch absorbs ultraviolet (UV), visible and infrared wavelengths of solar radiation effectively, thereby increasing soil temperature. White plastic mulch is just the opposite of black mulch; it cools the soil and is mostly used in crops that require less soil temperature [7,8]. Red plastic mulch absorbs solar radiation more efficiently than black, blue, green and yellow plastic mulches. The solar radiation transmittance follows the order of transparent>red>green>yellow>blue>black plastic mulch [9], while as per some studies, red>transparent>green>blue>yellow>black is the order of energy balance [10]. Coloured plastic mulches are designed to modify the microclimate at the plant and soil levels so as to increase crop production and productivity.

Summer squash (*Cucurbita pepo* L.), also known as bush squash, courgette, vegetable marrow, *Chappan Kaddu*, *Vilayati Kaddu*, and commonly known as zucchini, performs well in cool and moist climatic conditions, and requires approximately 16 to 27°C for its proper growth and development [11]. The *tarai* region of Uttarakhand has a great potential for this vegetable owing to its short duration, easier cultivation and off-season nature with higher economic returns per unit area. To achieve high fruit yield, this crop requires adequate soil
moisture and high soil temperature during the entire growing period. Surface mulching with plastic films can prove beneficial in terms of improving soil moisture retention, maintaining soil temperature regime (without large fluctuations) and minimising loss of nutrients and water through weeds. Many studies have shown accelerated plant growth and fruit ripening under mulched conditions [12]. Coloured plastic mulches have been shown to significantly affect light absorptivity, light reflectivity, soil water loss, soil temperature, plant morphology and weed control [3]. Therefore, considering the advantages of mulching in vegetable production, keeping in view the open field condition, an investigation was conducted to study the effect of different coloured plastic mulches on the growth and yield of summer squash.

## 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS

### 2.1 Location of the Experimental Site

The trial was carried out at the Vegetable Research Centre of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (29°N and 79.30°E, and 243.84 m above msl) during the *rabi* season of 2019-20. The experimental site is located in the sub-mountainous region of the Shivalik, known as *tarai*. The weekly average meteorological data recorded during the cropping

period, collected at the nearest observatory (GBPUA&T, Pantnagar), have been graphically presented in Fig. 1.

The physico-chemical properties of the experimental soil were determined by adopting standard analytical methods. The soil was sandy loam in texture, neutral in reaction (pH 7.2), low in available nitrogen (145.50 kg ha⁻¹), high in available phosphorus (21.60 kg ha⁻¹), medium in available potassium (125.13 kg ha⁻¹) and fairly high in organic carbon (0.91%).

### 2.2 Experimental Design and Cultural Practices

There were a total of nine treatments laid out in a randomised block design. The treatments were replicated three times, giving a total of 27 plots and a net experimental area of 270 m².

The seedlings of summer squash 'Cora' (F₁ hybrid) were prepared in polythene bags of 500 g capacity, using vermicompost and soil (3:1) as the growing medium, under polyhouse. The experimental field was prepared by giving one deep ploughing and three harrowings, followed by levelling, and then, divided into plots of specified size. Full doses of P₂O₅ (100 kg through DAP) and K₂O (160 kg through MOP), and half the recommended dose of nitrogen (60 kg through urea), along with well-rotten FYM

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /><figcaption>Fig. 1. Weekly average meteorological data obtained during the cropping period</figcaption></figure>
moisture and high soil temperature during the entire growing period. Surface mulching with plastic films can prove beneficial in terms of improving soil moisture retention, maintaining soil temperature regime (without large fluctuations) and minimising loss of nutrients and water through weeds. Many studies have shown accelerated plant growth and fruit ripening under mulched conditions [12]. Coloured plastic mulches have been shown to significantly affect light absorptivity, light reflectivity, soil water loss, soil temperature, plant morphology and weed control [3]. Therefore, considering the advantages of mulching in vegetable production, keeping in view the open field condition, an investigation was conducted to study the effect of different coloured plastic mulches on the growth and yield of summer squash.

## 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS

### 2.1 Location of the Experimental Site

The trial was carried out at the Vegetable Research Centre of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (29°N and 79.30°E, and 243.84 m above msl) during the *rabi* season of 2019-20. The experimental site is located in the sub-mountainous region of the Shivalik, known as *tarai*. The weekly average meteorological data recorded during the cropping

period, collected at the nearest observatory (GBPUA&T, Pantnagar), have been graphically presented in Fig. 1.

The physico-chemical properties of the experimental soil were determined by adopting standard analytical methods. The soil was sandy loam in texture, neutral in reaction (pH 7.2), low in available nitrogen (145.50 kg ha⁻¹), high in available phosphorus (21.60 kg ha⁻¹), medium in available potassium (125.13 kg ha⁻¹) and fairly high in organic carbon (0.91%).

### 2.2 Experimental Design and Cultural Practices

There were a total of nine treatments laid out in a randomised block design. The treatments were replicated three times, giving a total of 27 plots and a net experimental area of 270 m².

The seedlings of summer squash 'Cora' (F₁ hybrid) were prepared in polythene bags of 500 g capacity, using vermicompost and soil (3:1) as the growing medium, under polyhouse. The experimental field was prepared by giving one deep ploughing and three harrowings, followed by levelling, and then, divided into plots of specified size. Full doses of P₂O₅ (100 kg through DAP) and K₂O (160 kg through MOP), and half the recommended dose of nitrogen (60 kg through urea), along with well-rotten FYM

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /><figcaption>Fig. 1. Weekly average meteorological data obtained during the cropping period</figcaption></figure>
<table><caption>Table 1. Details of the treatments along with the symbols used</caption><thead><tr><td>Symbols</td><td>Treatments</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V<sub>1</sub></td><td>Plastic film of red-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>2</sub></td><td>Plastic film of silver-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>3</sub></td><td>Plastic film of white-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>4</sub></td><td>Plastic film of black-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>5</sub></td><td>Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>6</sub></td><td>Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>7</sub></td><td>Biodegradable film of silver-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>8</sub></td><td>Transparent film with herbicide application</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>9</sub></td><td>Control (Unmulched condition)</td></tr></tbody></table>

@ 20 t ha⁻¹ were applied before transplanting. The beds were manured with vermicompost @ 500 g m⁻², two days before transplanting.

Different bi-coloured (upper/outer surface, coloured, and lower/inner surface, black) plastic films of 25 µm thickness were applied on the beds as treatments in the present experiment. The details of the treatments have been provided in Table 1.

Holes were made on the films using a hot, thick pipe at a spacing of 90 cm × 60 cm to facilitate transplanting of the seedlings. Healthy seedlings of uniform size (10 to 15 cm in height, having two to four true leaves) were transplanted in the holes by carefully removing them along with the root ball. One light irrigation was given just after transplanting through drip system and the second irrigation was provided one week after transplanting for establishment of the root system. Further irrigations were applied as per crop demand, soil moisture status and climatic condition. The remaining dose of nitrogen (i.e., 60 kg) was applied 40 days after transplanting (DAT) as top-dressing. Recommended sprays of chemicals (fungicides and pesticides) were carried out throughout the cropping period to prevent outbreak of any disease or insect-pest.

## 2.3 Collection of Data

Randomly selected three plants plot⁻¹ were tagged for collecting data on plant height (cm), plant spread (cm) and fruit yield plant⁻¹ (g). Fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (mm) and average fruit weight (g) were recorded on three randomly selected fruits harvested at edible maturity. The weights of fruits harvested from all the 20 plants from each treatment of each replication were added and then, the average yield plot⁻¹ (kg) was calculated. The total yield of marketable fruits was estimated based on fruit yield plot⁻¹ and expressed in q ha⁻¹.

## 2.4 Statistical Analysis

The data recorded during the course of study were analysed statistically using MS Excel, OP Stat software (designed and developed by the Computer Section, CCS HAU, Hisar) and SPSS v.26 package and the treatment means were compared with CD (P=0.05) values for testing the significance of treatment differences.

# 3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

## 3.1 Vegetative Growth Traits

Plant height was significantly influenced by the use of different coloured plastic mulches. From the data (Table 2), it is apparent that the maximum plant heights (20.90 cm and 34.79 cm) were recorded under biodegradable silver-black mulch (V<sub>7</sub>) at 30 DAT and final harvest, respectively, which was followed by black mulch (V<sub>4</sub>). The minimum plant heights (17.21 cm and 27.33 cm) were registered by the transparent mulch (V<sub>8</sub>) at both the growth stages. Plant spread was significantly affected by the use of different coloured plastic mulches, as is evident from Table 2. The maximum plant spread was observed under the black plastic mulch (V<sub>4</sub>), i.e., 70.40 cm and 87.39 cm, respectively, at 30 DAT and at final harvest, followed by silver mulch (V<sub>2</sub>) and red mulch (V<sub>1</sub>). The plant spread was recorded minimum (41.59 cm) under unmulched condition (V<sub>9</sub>) at 30 DAT, while transparent mulch (V<sub>8</sub>) recorded the minimum plant spread (52.17 cm) at final harvest.

It is evident from the results that use of coloured plastic mulch significantly increased plant height and spread in summer squash. Higher plant height under biodegradable silver-black mulch may be attributed to higher photosynthesis as a result of higher uptake of nutrients due to favourable soil temperature and microclimate under plastic mulch, resulting in better growth
<table><caption>Table 1. Details of the treatments along with the symbols used</caption><thead><tr><td>Symbols</td><td>Treatments</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V<sub>1</sub></td><td>Plastic film of red-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>2</sub></td><td>Plastic film of silver-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>3</sub></td><td>Plastic film of white-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>4</sub></td><td>Plastic film of black-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>5</sub></td><td>Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>6</sub></td><td>Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>7</sub></td><td>Biodegradable film of silver-black colour</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>8</sub></td><td>Transparent film with herbicide application</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>9</sub></td><td>Control (Unmulched condition)</td></tr></tbody></table>

@ 20 t ha⁻¹ were applied before transplanting. The beds were manured with vermicompost @ 500 g m⁻², two days before transplanting.

Different bi-coloured (upper/outer surface, coloured, and lower/inner surface, black) plastic films of 25 µm thickness were applied on the beds as treatments in the present experiment. The details of the treatments have been provided in Table 1.

Holes were made on the films using a hot, thick pipe at a spacing of 90 cm × 60 cm to facilitate transplanting of the seedlings. Healthy seedlings of uniform size (10 to 15 cm in height, having two to four true leaves) were transplanted in the holes by carefully removing them along with the root ball. One light irrigation was given just after transplanting through drip system and the second irrigation was provided one week after transplanting for establishment of the root system. Further irrigations were applied as per crop demand, soil moisture status and climatic condition. The remaining dose of nitrogen (i.e., 60 kg) was applied 40 days after transplanting (DAT) as top-dressing. Recommended sprays of chemicals (fungicides and pesticides) were carried out throughout the cropping period to prevent outbreak of any disease or insect-pest.

## 2.3 Collection of Data

Randomly selected three plants plot⁻¹ were tagged for collecting data on plant height (cm), plant spread (cm) and fruit yield plant⁻¹ (g). Fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (mm) and average fruit weight (g) were recorded on three randomly selected fruits harvested at edible maturity. The weights of fruits harvested from all the 20 plants from each treatment of each replication were added and then, the average yield plot⁻¹ (kg) was calculated. The total yield of marketable fruits was estimated based on fruit yield plot⁻¹ and expressed in q ha⁻¹.

## 2.4 Statistical Analysis

The data recorded during the course of study were analysed statistically using MS Excel, OP Stat software (designed and developed by the Computer Section, CCS HAU, Hisar) and SPSS v.26 package and the treatment means were compared with CD (P=0.05) values for testing the significance of treatment differences.

# 3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

## 3.1 Vegetative Growth Traits

Plant height was significantly influenced by the use of different coloured plastic mulches. From the data (Table 2), it is apparent that the maximum plant heights (20.90 cm and 34.79 cm) were recorded under biodegradable silver-black mulch (V<sub>7</sub>) at 30 DAT and final harvest, respectively, which was followed by black mulch (V<sub>4</sub>). The minimum plant heights (17.21 cm and 27.33 cm) were registered by the transparent mulch (V<sub>8</sub>) at both the growth stages. Plant spread was significantly affected by the use of different coloured plastic mulches, as is evident from Table 2. The maximum plant spread was observed under the black plastic mulch (V<sub>4</sub>), i.e., 70.40 cm and 87.39 cm, respectively, at 30 DAT and at final harvest, followed by silver mulch (V<sub>2</sub>) and red mulch (V<sub>1</sub>). The plant spread was recorded minimum (41.59 cm) under unmulched condition (V<sub>9</sub>) at 30 DAT, while transparent mulch (V<sub>8</sub>) recorded the minimum plant spread (52.17 cm) at final harvest.

It is evident from the results that use of coloured plastic mulch significantly increased plant height and spread in summer squash. Higher plant height under biodegradable silver-black mulch may be attributed to higher photosynthesis as a result of higher uptake of nutrients due to favourable soil temperature and microclimate under plastic mulch, resulting in better growth
and development of the plants. Similar findings of better growth of summer squash by the use of plastic mulch were also reported by Bhatt et al. [13] and Singh et al. [14]. Higher soil temperature under black plastic mulch improved the plant microclimate, leading to early growth and development [15]. Singh et al. [16] observed wider plant spread under plastic mulch due to more CO₂ available for photosynthesis (due to chimney effect) as plastic mulches are more impermeable to the gas. All the mulches, except transparent mulch, suppress weed population by restricting the entry of sunlight, thereby reducing the uptake of nutrients by weeds and making more nutrients available for better growth and development of the crop plants. The present finding was also in close conformity with Thapliyal et al. [17].

## 3.2 Fruit and Yield-Related Attributes

Mulching with different coloured plastic films had no significant effect on fruit length (Table 3).

However, the maximum fruit length (30.78 cm) was observed under red plastic mulch (V₁), while transparent mulch (V₈) recorded the minimum fruit length (18.58 cm).

Contrary to fruit length, significant differences were observed among treatments for fruit diameter. The maximum diameter of the fruit (110.13 mm) was recorded under black coloured mulch (V₄), while the minimum fruit diameter (55.68 mm) was registered under transparent mulch (V₈), which was statistically at par with unmulched condition (V₉), i.e., 58.44 mm. Data in Table 3 clearly depict significant differences in average fruit weight w.r.t. different coloured plastic mulches compared to control (unmulched condition). Maximum average fruit weight (1097.67 g) was observed in red coloured plastic mulch (V₁), which was at par with V₂ (1029.00 g), V₄ (1010.17 g), V₇ (907.33 g) and V₅ (886.50 g), while the minimum average fruit weight (449.16 g) was registered in unmulched condition (V₉).

<table><caption>Table 2. Effect of different coloured plastic mulches on plant height (cm) and plant spread (cm) of summer squash</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Treatments</th><th colspan="2">Plant height (cm)</th><th colspan="2">Plant spread (cm)</th></tr><tr><th>At 30 DAT</th><th>At final harvest</th><th>At 30 DAT</th><th>At final harvest</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V₁: Plastic film of red-black colour</td><td>19.70</td><td>33.23</td><td>68.62</td><td>83.89</td></tr><tr><td>V₂: Plastic film of silver-black colour</td><td>19.80</td><td>32.49</td><td>68.91</td><td>83.62</td></tr><tr><td>V₃: Plastic film of white-black colour</td><td>19.62</td><td>32.06</td><td>57.54</td><td>72.54</td></tr><tr><td>V₄: Plastic film of black-black colour</td><td>20.55</td><td>33.77</td><td>70.40</td><td>87.39</td></tr><tr><td>V₅: Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td><td>19.00</td><td>31.88</td><td>60.19</td><td>75.19</td></tr><tr><td>V₆: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>19.28</td><td>31.00</td><td>60.01</td><td>75.05</td></tr><tr><td>V₇: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>20.90</td><td>34.79</td><td>67.14</td><td>82.14</td></tr><tr><td>V₈: Transparent film with herbicide application</td><td>17.21</td><td>27.33</td><td>41.59</td><td>52.17</td></tr><tr><td>V₉: Control (Unmulched condition)</td><td>17.26</td><td>27.62</td><td>40.37</td><td>53.82</td></tr><tr><td>CD (P=0.05)</td><td>2.19</td><td>4.23</td><td>11.03</td><td>12.66</td></tr></tbody></table>

<table><caption>Table 3. Effect of different coloured plastic mulches on fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (mm) and average fruit weight (g) of summer squash</caption><thead><tr><th>Treatments</th><th>Fruit length (cm)</th><th>Fruit diameter (mm)</th><th>Average fruit weight (g)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V₁: Plastic film of red-black colour</td><td>30.78</td><td>99.40</td><td>1097.67</td></tr><tr><td>V₂: Plastic film of silver-black colour</td><td>26.89</td><td>104.94</td><td>1029.83</td></tr><tr><td>V₃: Plastic film of white-black colour</td><td>26.96</td><td>100.90</td><td>864.33</td></tr><tr><td>V₄: Plastic film of black-black colour</td><td>22.90</td><td>110.13</td><td>1010.17</td></tr><tr><td>V₅: Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td><td>22.44</td><td>101.65</td><td>886.50</td></tr><tr><td>V₆: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>28.22</td><td>97.76</td><td>724.00</td></tr><tr><td>V₇: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>25.56</td><td>102.89</td><td>907.33</td></tr><tr><td>V₈: Transparent film with herbicide application</td><td>18.58</td><td>83.52</td><td>577.66</td></tr><tr><td>V₉: Control (Unmulched condition)</td><td>19.44</td><td>87.66</td><td>449.16</td></tr><tr><td>CD (P=0.05)</td><td>NS</td><td>12.82</td><td>226.62</td></tr></tbody></table>

NS = Non-Significant
and development of the plants. Similar findings of better growth of summer squash by the use of plastic mulch were also reported by Bhatt et al. [13] and Singh et al. [14]. Higher soil temperature under black plastic mulch improved the plant microclimate, leading to early growth and development [15]. Singh et al. [16] observed wider plant spread under plastic mulch due to more CO₂ available for photosynthesis (due to chimney effect) as plastic mulches are more impermeable to the gas. All the mulches, except transparent mulch, suppress weed population by restricting the entry of sunlight, thereby reducing the uptake of nutrients by weeds and making more nutrients available for better growth and development of the crop plants. The present finding was also in close conformity with Thapliyal et al. [17].

## 3.2 Fruit and Yield-Related Attributes

Mulching with different coloured plastic films had no significant effect on fruit length (Table 3).

However, the maximum fruit length (30.78 cm) was observed under red plastic mulch (V₁), while transparent mulch (V₈) recorded the minimum fruit length (18.58 cm).

Contrary to fruit length, significant differences were observed among treatments for fruit diameter. The maximum diameter of the fruit (110.13 mm) was recorded under black coloured mulch (V₄), while the minimum fruit diameter (55.68 mm) was registered under transparent mulch (V₈), which was statistically at par with unmulched condition (V₉), i.e., 58.44 mm. Data in Table 3 clearly depict significant differences in average fruit weight w.r.t. different coloured plastic mulches compared to control (unmulched condition). Maximum average fruit weight (1097.67 g) was observed in red coloured plastic mulch (V₁), which was at par with V₂ (1029.00 g), V₄ (1010.17 g), V₇ (907.33 g) and V₅ (886.50 g), while the minimum average fruit weight (449.16 g) was registered in unmulched condition (V₉).

<table><caption>Table 2. Effect of different coloured plastic mulches on plant height (cm) and plant spread (cm) of summer squash</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Treatments</th><th colspan="2">Plant height (cm)</th><th colspan="2">Plant spread (cm)</th></tr><tr><th>At 30<br>DAT</th><th>At final<br>harvest</th><th>At 30<br>DAT</th><th>At final<br>harvest</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V₁: Plastic film of red-black colour</td><td>19.70</td><td>33.23</td><td>68.62</td><td>83.89</td></tr><tr><td>V₂: Plastic film of silver-black colour</td><td>19.80</td><td>32.49</td><td>68.91</td><td>83.62</td></tr><tr><td>V₃: Plastic film of white-black colour</td><td>19.62</td><td>32.06</td><td>57.54</td><td>72.54</td></tr><tr><td>V₄: Plastic film of black-black colour</td><td>20.55</td><td>33.77</td><td>70.40</td><td>87.39</td></tr><tr><td>V₅: Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td><td>19.00</td><td>31.88</td><td>60.19</td><td>75.19</td></tr><tr><td>V₆: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>19.28</td><td>31.00</td><td>60.01</td><td>75.05</td></tr><tr><td>V₇: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>20.90</td><td>34.79</td><td>67.14</td><td>82.14</td></tr><tr><td>V₈: Transparent film with herbicide application</td><td>17.21</td><td>27.33</td><td>41.59</td><td>52.17</td></tr><tr><td>V₉: Control (Unmulched condition)</td><td>17.26</td><td>27.62</td><td>40.37</td><td>53.82</td></tr><tr><td>CD (P=0.05)</td><td>2.19</td><td>4.23</td><td>11.03</td><td>12.66</td></tr></tbody></table>

<table><caption>Table 3. Effect of different coloured plastic mulches on fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (mm) and average fruit weight (g) of summer squash</caption><thead><tr><th>Treatments</th><th>Fruit length (cm)</th><th>Fruit diameter (mm)</th><th>Average fruit weight (g)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V₁: Plastic film of red-black colour</td><td>30.78</td><td>99.40</td><td>1097.67</td></tr><tr><td>V₂: Plastic film of silver-black colour</td><td>26.89</td><td>104.94</td><td>1029.83</td></tr><tr><td>V₃: Plastic film of white-black colour</td><td>26.96</td><td>100.90</td><td>864.33</td></tr><tr><td>V₄: Plastic film of black-black colour</td><td>22.90</td><td>110.13</td><td>1010.17</td></tr><tr><td>V₅: Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td><td>22.44</td><td>101.65</td><td>886.50</td></tr><tr><td>V₆: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>28.22</td><td>97.76</td><td>724.00</td></tr><tr><td>V₇: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>25.56</td><td>102.89</td><td>907.33</td></tr><tr><td>V₈: Transparent film with herbicide application</td><td>18.58</td><td>83.52</td><td>577.66</td></tr><tr><td>V₉: Control (Unmulched condition)</td><td>19.44</td><td>87.66</td><td>449.16</td></tr><tr><td>CD (P=0.05)</td><td>NS</td><td>12.82</td><td>226.62</td></tr></tbody></table>

NS = Non-Significant
<table><caption>Table 4. Effect of different coloured plastic mulches on fruit yield plant⁻¹ (g), fruit yield plot⁻¹ (kg) and total marketable fruit yield (q ha⁻¹) of summer squash</caption><thead><tr><th>Treatments</th><th>Fruit yield plant<sup>-1</sup> (g)</th><th>Fruit yield plot<sup>-1</sup> (kg)</th><th>Total marketable fruit yield (q ha<sup>-1</sup>)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V<sub>1</sub>: Plastic film of red-black colour</td><td>1975.80</td><td>39.51</td><td>365.52</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>2</sub>: Plastic film of silver-black colour</td><td>1524.15</td><td>30.48</td><td>281.96</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>3</sub>: Plastic film of white-black colour</td><td>1253.28</td><td>25.06</td><td>231.85</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>4</sub>: Plastic film of black-black colour</td><td>1540.50</td><td>30.81</td><td>284.99</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>5</sub>: Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td><td>1296.50</td><td>25.93</td><td>239.85</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>6</sub>: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>959.30</td><td>19.18</td><td>177.47</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>7</sub>: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>1497.10</td><td>29.94</td><td>276.96</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>8</sub>: Transparent film with herbicide application</td><td>115.53</td><td>2.31</td><td>21.37</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>9</sub>: Control (Unmulched condition)</td><td>162.82</td><td>3.25</td><td>30.12</td></tr><tr><td>CD (P=0.05)</td><td>57.80</td><td>1.105</td><td>12.674</td></tr></tbody></table>

The increase in fruit length and fruit diameter may be attributed to the application of water in combination with plastic mulch. The constant favourable soil temperature and moisture provided better soil thermo-moisture regime in the root zone throughout the cropping season, which stimulated better crop growth resulting in increased fruit length and diameter under mulched condition. These results corroborate with the findings of Sezen et al. [18] in bell pepper. Similarly, Nagalakshmi et al. [19] observed the maximum diameter of fruits in chilli with the application of black plastic mulch. The higher value of average fruit weight under plastic mulch was attributed to better plant growth and development under optimum soil microclimate, resulting in better nutrient uptake. Increase in fruit weight due to mulching have also been reported by Awasthi et al. [20] in brinjal and Ambai and Joseph [21] in oriental pickling melon.

The various fruit yield parameters of summer squash were influenced by the use of different coloured plastic mulches (Table 4). Red plastic mulch (V₁) recorded the maximum fruit yield plant⁻¹ (1975.8 g), fruit yield plot⁻¹ (39.51 kg) as well as total marketable fruit yield (365.52 q ha⁻¹), while the transparent mulch (V₈) registered the lowest values for all the yield parameters.

Fruit number and weight are the principal components which determine fruit yield. Higher number and weight of fruits in red, silver and black plastic mulches might be the result of higher soil temperature with less fluctuation, better thermo-moisture regime of soil (leading to better soil microclimate and enhanced photosynthesis), less loss of water and better uptake of nutrients, collectively. Among all the coloured plastic mulches used, significantly higher fruit yield was recorded under red plastic film as red wavelength reflected

form the mulch surface was trapped by the plant canopy, leading to higher photosynthetic efficiency. On the other hand, the reduced yield under transparent mulch may be attributed to abundant weed growth under the mulch surface, leading to reduced nutrient availability and its uptake by the crop. Ansary and Roy [22] observed higher yield of watermelon in mulched treatment as compared to control, due to higher vegetative growth under mulches. Similar results were also recorded by Bhatt et al. [13], Singh et al. [14] and Thapliyal et al. [17] in summer squash; Hedau and Kumar [23] and Singh et al. [24] in tomato; Singh et al. [16] in bitter gourd; Awasthi et al. [20] in brinjal; and Nimah [25] in cucumber.

## 4. CONCLUSION

Based on the results, it can be concluded that use of red coloured plastic mulch enhanced both growth and yield-attributing characters in summer squash, keeping in view the prevalent climatic conditions of the *tarai* region of Uttarakhand. Besides red coloured plastic film, silver-black, black-black and biodegradable silver-black films also proved effective in increasing yields of the crop. Hence, red coloured plastic mulch can be recommended for commercial open-field cultivation of summer squash for getting higher fruit yields.

## COMPETING INTERESTS

Authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

## REFERENCES

1. Chalker-Scott L. Impact of mulches on landscape plants and the environment—A review. Journal of Environmental
<table><caption>Table 4. Effect of different coloured plastic mulches on fruit yield plant⁻¹ (g), fruit yield plot⁻¹ (kg) and total marketable fruit yield (q ha⁻¹) of summer squash</caption><thead><tr><th>Treatments</th><th>Fruit yield plant<sup>-1</sup> (g)</th><th>Fruit yield plot<sup>-1</sup> (kg)</th><th>Total marketable fruit yield (q ha<sup>-1</sup>)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>V<sub>1</sub>: Plastic film of red-black colour</td><td>1975.80</td><td>39.51</td><td>365.52</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>2</sub>: Plastic film of silver-black colour</td><td>1524.15</td><td>30.48</td><td>281.96</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>3</sub>: Plastic film of white-black colour</td><td>1253.28</td><td>25.06</td><td>231.85</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>4</sub>: Plastic film of black-black colour</td><td>1540.50</td><td>30.81</td><td>284.99</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>5</sub>: Plastic film of yellow-black colour</td><td>1296.50</td><td>25.93</td><td>239.85</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>6</sub>: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>959.30</td><td>19.18</td><td>177.47</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>7</sub>: Biodegradable film of white-black colour</td><td>1497.10</td><td>29.94</td><td>276.96</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>8</sub>: Transparent film with herbicide application</td><td>115.53</td><td>2.31</td><td>21.37</td></tr><tr><td>V<sub>9</sub>: Control (Unmulched condition)</td><td>162.82</td><td>3.25</td><td>30.12</td></tr><tr><td>CD (P=0.05)</td><td>57.80</td><td>1.105</td><td>12.674</td></tr></tbody></table>

The increase in fruit length and fruit diameter may be attributed to the application of water in combination with plastic mulch. The constant favourable soil temperature and moisture provided better soil thermo-moisture regime in the root zone throughout the cropping season, which stimulated better crop growth resulting in increased fruit length and diameter under mulched condition. These results corroborate with the findings of Sezen et al. [18] in bell pepper. Similarly, Nagalakshmi et al. [19] observed the maximum diameter of fruits in chilli with the application of black plastic mulch. The higher value of average fruit weight under plastic mulch was attributed to better plant growth and development under optimum soil microclimate, resulting in better nutrient uptake. Increase in fruit weight due to mulching have also been reported by Awasthi et al. [20] in brinjal and Ambai and Joseph [21] in oriental pickling melon.

The various fruit yield parameters of summer squash were influenced by the use of different coloured plastic mulches (Table 4). Red plastic mulch (V₁) recorded the maximum fruit yield plant⁻¹ (1975.8 g), fruit yield plot⁻¹ (39.51 kg) as well as total marketable fruit yield (365.52 q ha⁻¹), while the transparent mulch (V₈) registered the lowest values for all the yield parameters.

Fruit number and weight are the principal components which determine fruit yield. Higher number and weight of fruits in red, silver and black plastic mulches might be the result of higher soil temperature with less fluctuation, better thermo-moisture regime of soil (leading to better soil microclimate and enhanced photosynthesis), less loss of water and better uptake of nutrients, collectively. Among all the coloured plastic mulches used, significantly higher fruit yield was recorded under red plastic film as red wavelength reflected

form the mulch surface was trapped by the plant canopy, leading to higher photosynthetic efficiency. On the other hand, the reduced yield under transparent mulch may be attributed to abundant weed growth under the mulch surface, leading to reduced nutrient availability and its uptake by the crop. Ansary and Roy [22] observed higher yield of watermelon in mulched treatment as compared to control, due to higher vegetative growth under mulches. Similar results were also recorded by Bhatt et al. [13], Singh et al. [14] and Thapliyal et al. [17] in summer squash; Hedau and Kumar [23] and Singh et al. [24] in tomato; Singh et al. [16] in bitter gourd; Awasthi et al. [20] in brinjal; and Nimah [25] in cucumber.

## 4. CONCLUSION

Based on the results, it can be concluded that use of red coloured plastic mulch enhanced both growth and yield-attributing characters in summer squash, keeping in view the prevalent climatic conditions of the *tarai* region of Uttarakhand. Besides red coloured plastic film, silver-black, black-black and biodegradable silver-black films also proved effective in increasing yields of the crop. Hence, red coloured plastic mulch can be recommended for commercial open-field cultivation of summer squash for getting higher fruit yields.

## COMPETING INTERESTS

Authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

## REFERENCES

1. Chalker-Scott L. Impact of mulches on landscape plants and the environment—A review. Journal of Environmental
Horticulture. 2007;25(4):239-249.
Available: https://doi.org/10.24266/0738-2898-25.4.239

2. Cahill A, Chalker-Scott L, Ewing K. Wood-chip mulch improves woody plant survival and establishment at no-maintenance restoration site (Washington). Ecological Restoration. 2005;23(3):212-213.

3. Franquera EN. Effects of plastic mulch color on the total soluble solids, total sugars and chlorophyll content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). International Journal of Research. 2015;2(8):18-24.

4. Li Q, Li H, Zhang L, Zhang S, Chen Y. Mulching improves yield and water-use efficiency of potato cropping in China: A meta-analysis. Field Crops Research. 2018;221:50-60. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fcr.2018.02.017

5. Barche S, Nair R, Jain PK. A review of mulching on vegetable crops production. Ecology, Environment and Conservation. 2015;21(2):859-866.

6. Rathore AL, Pal AR, Sahu KK. Tillage and mulching effects on water use, root growth and yield of rainfed mustard and chickpea grown after lowland rice. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 1998; 78(2):149-61. Available: https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-0010(199810)78:2%3C149::AID-JSFA94%3E3.0.CO;2-U

7. Lamont Jr WJ. Plastic mulches for the production of vegetable crops. In: A guide to the manufacture, performance, and potential of plastics in agriculture. Elsevier. 2017:45-60. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-08-102170-5.00003-8

8. Decoteau DR, Kasperbauer MJ, Hunt PG. Mulch surface color affects yield of fresh-market tomatoes. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science. 1989; 114(2):216-219. Available: https://doi.org/10.21273/JASHS.114.2.216

9. Al-Karaghouli A, Al-Kayssi AW, Hasson AM. The photometric properties of different colored plastic mulches used for soil solarization. Solar & Wind Technology. 1990;7(2-3):119-123. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/0741-983X(90)90078-G

10. Alkayssi AW, Alkaraghouli AA. Influence of different colour plastic mulches used for soil solarization on the effectiveness of soil heating. FAO Plant Production and Protection Paper. 1991;109:297-308.

11. Chaurasia DK, Sachan S. Effect of organic and inorganic mulching on growth, yield and economics of summer squash (*Cucurbita pepo* L.) in open field condition of mid hills of Uttarakhand. The Journal of Rural and Agricultural Research. 2020; 20(1):22-25.

12. Ekinci M, Dursun A. Effects of different mulch materials on plant growth, some quality parameters and yield in melon (*Cucumis melo* L.) cultivars in high altitude environmental condition. Pakistan Journal of Botany. 2020;41(4):1891-901.

13. Bhatt L, Rana R, Uniyal SP, Singh VP. Effect of mulch materials on vegetative characters, yield and economics of summer squash (*Cucurbita pepo*) under rainfed mid-hill condition of Uttarakhand. Vegetable Science. 2011;38(2):165-168.

14. Singh VP, Singh PK, Bhatt LA. Effect of coloured plastic mulches on earliness, water productivity and production economics of summer squash under high hills of North-West Himalayas. Conservation. 2014;13(4):344-348.

15. Abdul-Baki A, Spence C, Hoover R. Black polyethylene mulch doubled yield of fresh-market field tomatoes. HortScience. 1992; 27(7):787-789.

16. Singh AK, Srivastava R, Gupta MJ, Chandra P. Effect of protected and unprotected condition on biotic stress, yield and economics of spring summer vegetables. The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences. 2005a;75(8):485-487.

17. Thapliyal P, Bhatt L, Uniyal SP, Maurya SK. Effect of soil moisture regimes and mulch materials on growth, yield and economics of summer squash in Uttarakhand hills. Vegetable Science. 2014;41(2):184-187.

18. Sezen SM, Yazar A, Eker S. Effect of drip irrigation regimes on yield and quality of field grown bell pepper. Agricultural Water Management. 2006;81(1-2):115-31. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2005.04.002

19. Nagalakshmi S, Palanisamy D, Eswaran S, Sreenarayanan VV. Influence of plastic mulching on chilli yield and economics. Indian Journal of Horticulture. 2002;50(2): 262-265.

20. Awasthi OP, Singh IS, Sharma BD. Effect of mulch on soil-hydrothermal
Horticulture. 2007;25(4):239-249.
Available: https://doi.org/10.24266/0738-2898-25.4.239

2. Cahill A, Chalker-Scott L, Ewing K. Wood-chip mulch improves woody plant survival and establishment at no-maintenance restoration site (Washington). Ecological Restoration. 2005;23(3):212-213.

3. Franquera EN. Effects of plastic mulch color on the total soluble solids, total sugars and chlorophyll content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). International Journal of Research. 2015;2(8):18-24.

4. Li Q, Li H, Zhang L, Zhang S, Chen Y. Mulching improves yield and water-use efficiency of potato cropping in China: A meta-analysis. Field Crops Research. 2018;221:50-60. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fcr.2018.02.017

5. Barche S, Nair R, Jain PK. A review of mulching on vegetable crops production. Ecology, Environment and Conservation. 2015;21(2):859-866.

6. Rathore AL, Pal AR, Sahu KK. Tillage and mulching effects on water use, root growth and yield of rainfed mustard and chickpea grown after lowland rice. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 1998; 78(2):149-61. Available: https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-0010(199810)78:2%3C149::AID-JSFA94%3E3.0.CO;2-U

7. Lamont Jr WJ. Plastic mulches for the production of vegetable crops. In: A guide to the manufacture, performance, and potential of plastics in agriculture. Elsevier. 2017:45-60. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-08-102170-5.00003-8

8. Decoteau DR, Kasperbauer MJ, Hunt PG. Mulch surface color affects yield of fresh-market tomatoes. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science. 1989; 114(2):216-219. Available: https://doi.org/10.21273/JASHS.114.2.216

9. Al-Karaghouli A, Al-Kayssi AW, Hasson AM. The photometric properties of different colored plastic mulches used for soil solarization. Solar & Wind Technology. 1990;7(2-3):119-123. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/0741-983X(90)90078-G

10. Alkayssi AW, Alkaraghouli AA. Influence of different colour plastic mulches used for soil solarization on the effectiveness of soil heating. FAO Plant Production and Protection Paper. 1991;109:297-308.

11. Chaurasia DK, Sachan S. Effect of organic and inorganic mulching on growth, yield and economics of summer squash (*Cucurbita pepo* L.) in open field condition of mid hills of Uttarakhand. The Journal of Rural and Agricultural Research. 2020; 20(1):22-25.

12. Ekinci M, Dursun A. Effects of different mulch materials on plant growth, some quality parameters and yield in melon (*Cucumis melo* L.) cultivars in high altitude environmental condition. Pakistan Journal of Botany. 2020;41(4):1891-901.

13. Bhatt L, Rana R, Uniyal SP, Singh VP. Effect of mulch materials on vegetative characters, yield and economics of summer squash (*Cucurbita pepo*) under rainfed mid-hill condition of Uttarakhand. Vegetable Science. 2011;38(2):165-168.

14. Singh VP, Singh PK, Bhatt LA. Effect of coloured plastic mulches on earliness, water productivity and production economics of summer squash under high hills of North-West Himalayas. Conservation. 2014;13(4):344-348.

15. Abdul-Baki A, Spence C, Hoover R. Black polyethylene mulch doubled yield of fresh-market field tomatoes. HortScience. 1992; 27(7):787-789.

16. Singh AK, Srivastava R, Gupta MJ, Chandra P. Effect of protected and unprotected condition on biotic stress, yield and economics of spring summer vegetables. The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences. 2005a;75(8):485-487.

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21. Ambai A, Joseph PA. Effect of drip irrigation and mulching on available soil moisture, soil temperature, weed growth, nutrient uptake, growth and yield of oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo var. conomon L.). South Indian Horticulture. 2007;55(1):65-72.

22. Ansary SH, Roy DC. Effect of irrigation and mulching on growth, yield and quality of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). Environment and Ecology. 2005;23(1):141-143.

23. Hedau NK, Mahesh Kumar MK. Effect of different mulches on yield, plant height, nitrogen uptake, weed control, soil moisture and economics of tomato cultivation. Progressive Horticulture. 2002; 34(2):208-210.

24. Singh R, Asrey R, Kumar S. Effect of transplanting time and mulching on growth and yield of tomato. Indian Journal of Horticulture. 2005b;62(4):350-353.

25. Nimah MN. Cucumber yield under regular deficit irrigation and mulching treatments. Acta Horticulturae. 2007;731(1):189-194. Available:https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHort ic.2007.731.25

© Copyright (2024): Author(s). The licensee is the journal publisher. This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Peer-review history:

The peer review history for this paper can be accessed here:

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regimes, growth and fruit yield of brinjal under arid conditions. Indian Journal of Horticulture. 2006;63(2):192-194.

21. Ambai A, Joseph PA. Effect of drip irrigation and mulching on available soil moisture, soil temperature, weed growth, nutrient uptake, growth and yield of oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo var. conomon L.). South Indian Horticulture. 2007;55(1):65-72.

22. Ansary SH, Roy DC. Effect of irrigation and mulching on growth, yield and quality of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). Environment and Ecology. 2005;23(1):141-143.

23. Hedau NK, Mahesh Kumar MK. Effect of different mulches on yield, plant height, nitrogen uptake, weed control, soil moisture and economics of tomato cultivation. Progressive Horticulture. 2002; 34(2):208-210.

24. Singh R, Asrey R, Kumar S. Effect of transplanting time and mulching on growth and yield of tomato. Indian Journal of Horticulture. 2005b;62(4):350-353.

25. Nimah MN. Cucumber yield under regular deficit irrigation and mulching treatments. Acta Horticulturae. 2007;731(1):189-194. Available:https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2007.731.25

© Copyright (2024): Author(s). The licensee is the journal publisher. This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

## Peer-review history:

The peer review history for this paper can be accessed here:

https://www.sdiarticle5.com/review-history/116417