Editing Plastic mulch (section)

==History==
The idea of using polyethylene film as mulch in plant production saw its beginnings in the mid-1950s. Dr. Emery M. Emmert of the [[University of Kentucky]] was one of the first to recognize the benefits of using [[LDPE]] ([[low-density polyethylene]]) and [[HDPE]] ([[high-density polyethylene]]) film as mulch in vegetable production. Emmert also wrote on other topics such as the use of plastic for [[greenhouses]] instead of glass and plastic in field high tunnels. Approximately {{convert|2500|sqmi|km2}} of agricultural land utilize polyethylene mulch and similar row covers for crop production in the world.
Laying plastic polythene (mulch) down over mounds formed in the soil was also pioneered in [[New Zealand]] in the mid fifties by [[strawberry]] growers in the [[Auckland]] area.
By 1960-61 all strawberries grown commercially in New Zealand were grown through black polythene usually laid by hand. The plastic promoted growth, conserved moisture brought on early fruiting and restricted weed infestation.
The earliest polythene laying machines were in use in New Zealand by the mid 1960s and were very similar to the machines sold today. The very first machines were designed by growers and built by small engineering/fabrication workshops, usually under the careful guidance and supervision of the farmer. Each machine for many years was generally similar to the last, with the occasional modification to improve performance.