McDonald and Helgerson (1990) published a definition of the "ideal
mulch mat".
It should be: opaque; dark; permit water filtration; retard
evaporation losses; support favourable soil temperatures; sufficiently
long and durable to last until seedlings are established; low
in cost and lightweight; non toxic; colour that blends into
the landscape; biodegradable; unattractive to animals.
EcoCover - we believe the world's most comprehensive
mulch mat