Evaluation of biodegradable and polyethylene mulches in sweet corn production

ABSTRACT: Most mulch films are currently produced from polyethylene. A major drawback is disposal, which cause to an environmental pollution problem. Suitable alternative methods for plastic include the use of biodegradable Materials. Effects of mulch and sowing date on growth and yield of sweet corn and weed suppression were studied in 2010 and 2011. Treatments included two mulches (black plastic and white biodegradable based on starch) and two non-mulched (weedy and control), and three sowing dates (5 June, 20 June and 6 July). The experimental was structured as a factorial design in a randomized complete block arrangement and three replications. Results indicated that breakdown of biodegradable mulch occurred about 3 weeks after sowing. Due to early breakdown of the biodegradable mulch, weed pressure was high, resulting in smaller plants with low yield in both years. The black plastic mulch satisfactory provided 92 to 93% weed control relative to weedy plots. The highest kernel and green fodder yield obtained in late sowing date (6 July). Three factors seem to be resolve before biodegradable mulch can be seen as a viable replacement for polyethylene mulches: Withstand the stresses at least until tasseling of sweet corn, complete breakdown in the soil, and must be dark for weed suppression.