Module 7: Coverage

[Audio] Module 7 deals with the innovative covering materials used for crop protection and with the innovative agricultural mulching techniques.

[Audio] In order to create environmental conditions according to crop needs inside a greenhouse, it is important to choose suitable greenhouse covering material and soil mulching. The presence of these will contribute to improve plant growth and productivity. The covering material modifies the microclimate inside the greenhouse, while the soil mulching modifies soil conditions. The physical properties of the covering and mulching materials must be chosen in accordance with crop needs and weather conditions..

[Audio] Objective of this module is the acquisition of knowledge for the identification of suitable covering materials for greenhouses typical of the Mediterranean climate. Another objective is the identification of suitable soil mulching techniques and materials. Covering and mulching materials must guarantee adequate growing conditions for plants as required for the cultivated species and in relation with the climate of the geographical area and the growing season. This module explains characteristics and functions of the covering materials and of the soil mulching and how they work. Strengths and weaknesses are highlighted. Innovative materials are also described..

[Audio] The course provide competences for the selection of the optimal greenhouse covering material and of the most suitable soil mulching technique. These are chosen as a function of the cultivation period, the geographical area, the greenhouse structure and the cultivated species. At the end of the course, participants will understand how the presence of the covering and mulching materials influence plant growth conditions and which strategies can improve crop yield. The aim is to provide an answer to the questions: what must be considered when choosing a covering material and/or a mulching material? What is the most adequate material in relation to the crop and the external climate conditions?.

[Audio] The module is related with climate and energy management modules. The objective of the climate management module is to explain the advantages of the application of automatic climate and fertigation control, and to describe the needed elements and the most commonly used techniques. The energy management module stresses the importance of improving the use of energy, starting with the quantification of energy demand, the identification of critical aspects, the analysis of energy saving measures, and the improvement of energy efficiency to move towards sustainable production, through the reduction of environmental impacts and costs. Greenhouse covering materials are related to climate and energy management as they influence microclimate, while soil mulching affects fertigation..

[Audio] The module includes two lessons: innovative covering materials and innovative mulching techniques. The described materials and technologies are the widespread in Mediterranean greenhouses. Particular attention is paid to innovation..

[Audio] A common program for both lessons was created: videos with a duration ranging from 15 to 45 minutes were created..