Abstract
Crop production systems are gravely vulnerable to weeds. Non-chemical weed control such as mulches is required due to herbicide-resistant weeds and environmental pollution caused by herbicides. Several types of plastic mulches have been investigated for controlling weeds in different kinds of cropping systems. Among these, black plastic mulch has been found the most effective and popular. However, due to environmental demerits of plastic mulch, degradable or biodegradable mulches have been suggested as alternative to black plastic mulch. More research and funding should be provided for the development and field application of degradable/biodegradable mulches. Several kinds of straw mulches have also been investigated and provide encouraging results for weed control in field crops. Nevertheless, some of the studies indicated that straw mulch may not provide viable weed control under certain field situations. In some studies, the paper mulches have also provided some promising results for weed control in different crops. Many types of organic wastes have the potential to suppress weeds if appropriately converted to a mulch.
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