Evaluation of Biodegradable Mulch Films on Melon Production and Quality under Mediterranean Field Conditions

Abstract

This study examines the effects of biodegradable mulches on melon production and quality in a Mediterranean environment, specifically focusing on Mater-Bi and Ecovio in comparison to conventional (low-density polyethylene) LDPE mulch. Biodegradable mulches influenced soil temperature, with Mater-Bi maintaining higher maximum soil temperatures conducive to crop growth, while Ecovio exhibited lower maximum temperatures beneficial in hot summer months. Results revealed a significant increase in melon yield with biodegradable mulches, with both Ecovio and Mater-Bi demonstrating higher yields at approximately 20.41 t ha−1, showing an improvement of 23.4% compared to LDPE. Although mulching did not impact the number, weight, or distal diameter of marketable fruits, it affected the apical diameter, with Ecovio-treated plants displaying an 8.4% larger apical diameter compared to the average of all treatments. Furthermore, mulching influenced fruit quality parameters such as consistency, pulp thickness, sugar content, and anti-oxidant activity, with Mater-Bi exhibiting the best performance. Since both Mater-Bi and Ecovio possess strengths and weaknesses, selecting the optimal mulch depends on the farmer’s specific objectives and local growing conditions. Overall, the study suggests that biodegradable mulches, particularly Ecovio, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic films, contributing to environmental preservation and enhancing melon yield and quality in Mediterranean agricultural settings.