Chapter 4 - Weed Control Using Ground Cover Systems

Abstract

Use of ground-cover systems (GCSs) is gaining popularity owing to several of their benefits. Other than benefits such as improved soil protection and water retention, the GCS also help to suppress weeds under various agricultural systems. Most important among the GCS may include polyethylene (plastic) mulch, straw mulch, paper mulch, carpet mulch, woodchip mulch, and use of cloth and mats for weed control. Such GCS have been found to provide satisfactory to effective weed control in a variety of agricultural systems. The GCS inhibit weed germination by stopping the sunlight to reach the soil surface, exert a physical pressure to suppress the germinating/emerging weeds, and cause a slight rise in soil temperature that impacts weeds negatively. Negative impacts of plastic mulches on the environment and the organisms in an agricultural ecosystem have been noted. In addition to disposal and degradation issues, remains of plastic sheet in the field may cause hindrances in field operations. Such issues may be resolved with site-specific agronomic management. For instance, biodegradable mulches have been suggested to replace the plastic ones owing to environmental damage caused by polyethylene. Use of paper mulches from renewable stuff is the other option to replace plastic mulches. GCS are particularly important for weed control in vegetables (grown in either closed or open environments) and horticultural fruit crops (such as watermelon and muskmelon). GCS may play an important role as a non-chemical weed control in the wake of demand for pesticide-free foods.