A planter tarpaulin, often simply called a planter tarp, is a cover that is placed over containers, pots, and raised garden beds. The primary function of a planter Plastic Tarpaulin is to retain soil moisture and protect the soil from various environmental factors like heavy rain, drying winds, and extreme heat or cold temperatures.
Planter Tarps Act as a Barrier
Planter tarps act as a barrier, trapping moisture in the soil and blocking it from evaporating into the air or being washed away by rain. This allows the soil to maintain an optimum level of moisture for healthy plant growth throughout the growing season, even during dry or windy periods.
Why use a planter tarpaulin?
There are several key reasons why planter tarps are a valuable tool for optimizing moisture levels in container gardens.
Moisture retention and soil protection
By trapping moisture in the soil beneath it, a tarpaulin helps prevent evaporation and keeps the soil from drying out too quickly between waterings. This is especially important for planters that cannot be irrigated as frequently as in-ground beds during hot or dry weather. Tarps shield soil from direct sun rays that can cook away moisture.
Prevent weed growth
Tarps block sunlight from reaching weed seeds waiting in the soil to germinate. Without light stimulation, many common garden weeds will not sprout. This makes tarped containers much easier to maintain weed-free all season.
Protection from weather
Planter tarps provide shields from heavy rain that could wash valuable nutrients and soil structure out of containers. They also defend soil from drying winds that pull moisture away rapidly. Tarps block freezing temperatures from reaching plant roots in pots during chilly nights.
Moderate soil temperatures
By regulating exposure to direct sunlight, Tarpaulins help keep soil temperatures cool on hot days and insulate against colder nights. This protects plant roots and beneficial soil microbes from temperature fluctuations that could damage them. Moderated soil temperatures promote healthy root growth.
Extended growing seasons
With efficient moisture retention and thermal regulation, planter tarps can extend the usable life of containers both earlier and later in the season compared to uncovered soil. This allows growing seasons to be stretched to their full potential.
Choosing the right planter tarpaulin material
When selecting a planter tarp, it's important to choose a material suited for your climate conditions and desired level of moisture retention versus breathability. Here's a breakdown of common material types:
Plastic Tarpaulins
Plastic tarps are typically made from poly sheeting that is completely waterproof. They excel at retaining moisture but can get very hot, so only use on containers with plants that can tolerate higher soil temperatures. Low-grade plastic may break down rapidly from UV exposure. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic withstands sunlight better.
Fabric Tarpaulin
Fabric tarps come in woven or non-woven polyester or polypropylene. They allow some airflow while still protecting from rain and excess evaporation. Breathable fabrics prevent soils from getting baked in the sun while keeping adequate moisture levels. Look for solutions like spunbond polypropylene which balance breathability and durability.
Micromesh Tarpaulin
Micromesh clear Tarpaulin is a finely woven screen made of dense polymer fibers. The small holes allow circulation and shade while blocking most moisture loss. This makes micromesh a great all-around option, especially for hot climates. Products like Agribon have micro-perforations that sift just enough airflow.
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