Large sheet of film covering multiple beds

Higher soil temperatures and deeper heating may be achieved with a double layer of plastic. The top layer of film can be applied loosely to form an air pocket capable of reducing heat loss from the soil. Even higher soil temperatures can be obtained when beds are solarized within a closed greenhouse or hoop house. At the Noble Foundation, hoop house bed temperatures at a depth of 6 inches commonly reach 120°F during August.

Once plastic has been removed, the cooled, treated soil can be used. Plastic may remain in place through the winter; however, it may start to degrade, making cleanup difficult in the spring.

There is no reason to cultivate the soil before planting if the beds have been prepared properly. If required, fertilizer may be incorporated prior to planting. Try not to incorporate fertilizer deeper than 3 inches, or you risk bringing weed seeds and pathogens to the surface.

Because soil solarization is laborious and will reduce production for a portion of the summer, limit its use by employing other pest control strategies instead, such as cover crops, organic amendments and crop rotation.

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