For so many years now, the increased use of plastic in agriculture
has led to an increase in crop production and quality. Plastics allow for
vegetables and fruits to be grown all year round (this is very beneficial to
the countries in the temperate and polar zones of the world). Plastics used in
agriculture include: polyolefin, polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP),
Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate Copolymer (EVA), Poly-vinyl chloride (PVC), and the less
commonly used Polycarbonate (PC), and poly-methyl-methacrylate (PMMA). Why is
plastic so beneficial to agriculture then? Plastics are used in:
· Ensilage: This is very useful during the winter season. Fodder is harvested
while green and kept lush through partial fermentation in a silo. Plastic films
are used in storing the silage (for their resistance).
· Diverse
applications: Plastics are also used in
components for irrigation systems like spray cones (these tapes hold the aerial
parts of a plant in a greenhouse). They are also used in crates for crop
collecting, and in handling and transport of crops.
· Plastic
reservoirs and irrigation systems: Plastics are
suitable as they do not leak. This is an essential contribution to water
management.
· Greenhouses: Greenhouses provide proper environmental conditions for faster
and securer plant growth, avoiding extreme temperatures and protecting crops
from harmful external conditions.
· Tunnels: Growing crops in tunnels is similar to the greenhouse system,
except for the increased complexity and height. Watermelon and asparagus are
most commonly cultivated in tunnels.
· Mulching: Plastic mulching reduces evaporation from the soil thereby
maintaining humidity, and improves thermal conditions for the plants’ roots. It
also prevents contact between the plant and the ground and precludes the growth
of weed (which would lead to competition with the plants for soil nutrients and
water).
Comments
Post a Comment