Harris Seeds Plastic Mulch

The white top layer reflects sunlight, which helps keep the soil cooler—ideal for heat-sensitive crops like lettuce and strawberries. Meanwhile, the black underside blocks light from reaching the soil, effectively preventing weed germination beneath the plastic.

Yes, at 1.25 mil thick, this embossed polyethylene film is designed for seasonal field use. It provides a durable barrier that resists tearing while you work in the garden, though it is intended to be removed at the end of the season rather than left in place year-round.

This specific product is optimized for cool-season crops because the white surface reflects heat away from the soil. If you are growing warm-season crops like tomatoes or peppers, you would be better served by a solid black mulch, which absorbs heat to warm the soil.

You will need to bury the edges of the plastic in shallow trenches or use landscape staples to hold it down. Because it is a large, lightweight film, securing the edges firmly is essential to prevent it from blowing away in the wind.

This is a solid polyethylene film, so it is not permeable. Water will run off the surface, so you should install drip irrigation lines underneath the plastic before laying it down to ensure your plants receive adequate hydration.