Effect of black plastic mulch on soil temperature and tomato yield

The effect of soil mulching with black plastic sheets on soil temperature and tomato yield was evaluated in the temperate region of Uttarakhand. The experiment was carried out in randomized complete block design (RBD) from May to September of the year 2006, 2007 and 2008 in a 5x1.8m size plot with ten replications. Highest soil temperature was obtained under the black plastic mulch during the early growth season due to less shade on the surface. The difference in temperature between mulched and bare soil was 2.2 – 3.4°C. Black plastic mulch significantly affects the tomato yield. The yield increased with black plastic mulch was 20.7 to 29.8% as compared to bare soil.