Bioplastic, biofabric tested for cucumber production

Trials in field and high tunnel cucumber cropping systems compared performance and decomposition (after use) among two bioplastic films and four experimental spunbond, nonwoven biofabrics. Results suggested that biofabrics would be most useful to growers when soil warming is not necessary (e.g., in warm climates), but when moisture conservation and weed control are critical. Permeable biofabrics may also be useful to growers who are dependent on sprinkler irrigation or rainfall to meet crop water demands.