A SIMPLE METHOD FOR SAVING WATER IN AGRICULTURE BASED ON THE USE OF PHOTO-SELECTIVE MULCH FILM

In the panorama of agricultural mulches photo-reflective films represent a valuable support for both spring and summer cultivations, both in open field and under greenhouse. In fact, thanks to the high reflectivity of these films, thermal aggressions, that cause serious problems to plants mainly in the transplant phase when traditional black mulch films are used, are avoided. Yellow or silver colored photo-reflective mulch films, thanks to their optical properties, protect plants from damages, assure the mulching effect, give a valid support to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and, according to our recent experimental trials, greatly contribute in saving water. This further advantage is determined by the high water condensation under the mulch film, which gives rise to the reduction of irrigation. Water saving means also energy saving for electric system providing water circulation. Trials performed at different environmental and geographical contexts confirm that the use of photo-reflective mulch films during the hot season helps to save water up to 30%, respect to the traditional black mulches, with very small, simple and cheap changes in the agronomical practice. In this paper, we analyze the optical properties of photo-reflective mulch films and we demonstrate their contribution for saving water in agriculture. In this context, the use of thermography allowed us to monitor the stress states of plants induced by the water scarcity, but also to study more advanced techniques, based on IR imaging, able to manage in the best way possible the use of water in agriculture.