EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT PLASTIC FILMS MULCHING ON SOIL TEMPERATURE AND MOISTURE AND FILM MECHANICAL PROPERTY

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to study heat and moisture retention and breaking force properties of different plastic mulches. The field experiments with different plastic mulches were carried. The results showed that, the fracture strength and the right-angle tear strength of reinforced mulch are superior to those of weather-resistant mulch and ordinary mulch. The soil moisture, humidity and daily mean temperature under plastic mulches were affected by the laying time at a 1% probability level. It was also found that the variety had no significant effect on daily mean temperature under plastic mulches. A strong correlation was found between breaking force and the laying time of plastic film. A multiple linear regression model was developed to determine the relationship between the heat and moisture retention properties and breaking force. The R2 values of three plastic mulch varieties regression model were 0.904, 0.913 and 0.931. The breaking force of reinforced mulch and weather-resistant mulch indicates that plastic mulch recovery should be conducted after autumn, before it is too weakened by exposure.