Mulching is one of the most effective and widely used techniques in modern agriculture, especially in vegetable production. To understand how mulching materials influence crop performance, the B.Sc. Agriculture students of PGI College, Pithoragarh conducted a comparative study on the yield of capsicum (Shimla Mirch) grown in black polythene mulch and normal organic mulch in grow bags.

This research-based activity was part of their practical learning module, helping students gain hands-on experience in scientific crop management strategies.

Introduction

Mulching plays a crucial role in enhancing soil health, minimizing water loss, and improving vegetable crop yield. To examine which mulching method performs better for capsicum cultivation, PGI Agriculture students designed a controlled experiment using two different mulches:

• Black Polythene Mulch

• Normal Organic Mulch (compost-based)

Both mulch types were tested under identical growing conditions in grow bags.

Objective of the Study

The main purpose of this experiment was:

To evaluate the effect of black polythene mulch vs. normal organic mulch on the growth and yield of capsicum plants grown in grow bags.

This study helps students understand mulching efficiency and assists farmers in making informed decisions.

Methodology

The experiment was conducted under controlled conditions, ensuring scientific accuracy.

Setup Details:

• Capsicum seedlings were transplanted in grow bags.

• Two mulch treatments were used:

  • Treatment 1: Black polythene mulch

  • Treatment 2: Organic mulch (leaf compost + farmyard waste)

• Controlled factors:

  • Soil mixture

  • Irrigation schedule

  • Fertilizer application

  • Light exposure

  • Grow bag size

This allowed accurate comparison of the mulch impact on yield.

Results: Black Polythene Mulch Shows Higher Yield

The yield data clearly showed that capsicum plants mulched with black polythene produced significantly higher yield compared to those under normal organic mulch in grow bags.

Why did black polythene mulch perform better?

Because it offers better:

1. Soil Temperature Regulation
   Maintains a warm, consistent soil environment, promoting faster root development.

2. Moisture Conservation
   Drastically reduces evaporation and keeps the grow bag soil moist for longer.

3. Weed Suppression
   Blocks sunlight, preventing weed growth and eliminating competition for nutrients.

4. Improved Soil Structure
   Enhances water infiltration and aeration, leading to healthier plant growth.

Comparison Table

The findings highlight how the selection of mulch can significantly influence crop productivity.

Conclusion

The study conducted by the Agriculture department of PGI College concludes that:

Black polythene mulch is a more effective mulching option for capsicum cultivation, especially in grow bags, due to its ability to enhance yield through better moisture retention, weed control, and optimal soil conditions.

These insights align with broader agricultural research that supports the efficiency of polythene mulch in vegetable production.