[allotmentvegigirl]

Hello All

I have planted loads of pumpkin ans squash on my plot - today while up the lottie i noticed that everbody else had this kind of black plastic matting over the ground with a hole cut for the plant - what is the benifit of this?? Where is the best place to purchase something this this?

[gobs]

Supresses weed growth and keeps the soil warm, often grown this way, but it isn't necessary.

[compostqueen]

I use it extensively but it's expensive. Mind you it should last forever.  I cleared my plot with it rather than weedkilling.  Nearly finished it and the last two strips will get uncovered maybe autumn or next spring

There are a few varieties but one is called Tenax Red Stripe and it's heavy duty woven stuff which is porous so the soil underneath won't dry out. I rate the stuff and use it for paths too. Needs pegging down though or you can kiss it goodbye