Black and IRT plastic mulch provides good weed control in the row. Clear plastic will require use of a herbicide, fumigation or lifting the mulch and cultivating. Often, weeds between mulch strips can be controlled by a herbicide. Very high levels of CO 2 build up under the plastic, because the film does not allow it to escape. Black plastic does not break down and should never be tilled into the soil.
Clear plastic does break down with time but leaves a messy garden.
These costs should be offset by increased income due to earlier harvests, better quality fruit and higher yields. The first step is to take 2 soil samples in early fall. Have one sample assayed for mineral content and one for nematodes. If the soil test suggests applying lime, apply enough in the fall to reach pH 6.0 to 6.5 using dolomitic lime if magnesium is low. Consult Horticultural Information Leaflets for specific crop recommendations.