Comparison of Plastics for High Tunnel Soil Solarization
Extension Education
Kim Rowe
Hope
Abstract
Traditionally, soil solarization has been demonstrated in field settings. With the expansion of high tunnel production, soil solarization has the potential to reduce herbicide applications for growers if done in an effective manner. The purpose of this demonstration was to compare the effectiveness of two plastic coverings for the purpose of soil solarization, primarily to observe differences in weed seed germination in a high tunnel. The cooperating producer prepared his high tunnel for the next season before installing the demonstration to leave the soil seed bank undisturbed so that effective solarization would not be interrupted by turning the soil prior to planting for the next season. Two polyethylene films in clear and black, both 6 mil, were utilized over half of the tunnel beds, respectively. Over ten weeks, soil temperature, air temperature, soil moisture were monitored under each covering. Temperatures of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit were reported for fifty-eight days of the demonstration period. At the end of ten weeks, the plastics were removed and differences in weed seed germination were noted. The area of clear plastic solarization showed crabgrass and spotted spurge had survived and were actively growing under the clear plastic, which had degraded under the high temperatures. The area of black plastic occultation showed no weed emergence. Observations will continue throughout the next growing season. Early results were promising to the producers, and they expressed they would consider incorporating black plastic occultation into their production practices.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Kim Rowe, Taunya Ernst, Mike Hamilton
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Rowe, K. Hempstead County Extension Agent - Agriculture , University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas, 71801
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Ernst, T. Instructor - High Tunnel and Urban Agriculture Educator, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas, 72204
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Hamilton, M. Instructor - Irrigation Education, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas, 72472