EcoCover (NZ) Limited : Paper mulch mat for weed control : The EcoCover mulch mat is made from recycled paper

New Research Contracts Signed in New Zealand and Norway

Release Date: 2005-12-01

Massey University's Institute of Natural Resources has begun a 6 month research programme into the product attributes of EcoCover fertilizer enriched mats and EcoCover coloured fertilizer enriched mats as they relate to two crops of global significance.

This crop research compares certain other mulches to both natural and coloured EcoCover.

The comparative attributes being researched are:

1. Plant growth
2. Crop yield
3. Crop colour
4. Crop quality
5. Soil moisture retention
6. Soil temperature profiles (especially over the dry summer period)
7. Irrigation requirements

Trondheim University is Norway's leading plant research institute. Murray Cruickshank (EcoCover's Chairman) met with Professor Tor Henning (Department Head) in Norway during September 2005. As a result Trondheim University will commence a 6 month research programme using EcoCover in very cold climates from November 2005. Trondheim is located 500kms south of the Arctic Circle and this research will provide EcoCover with the necessary data to determine if planting times can be extended in very cold climates due to the insulation properties of the mat, thus improving productivity.

In this project, three crops of global significance (different to those being researched at Massey) are being evaluated.

The comparative attributes being researched in comparison to certain other mulches are:

1. Frost protection abilities
2. Mulch performance and wear resistance during a Northern European winter (winter 2005 / 2006)
3. Plant growth (fresh / dry weights; plant height; yield; flowering time)
4. Flavouring agents in edible plant parts
5. Weed control
6. Winter biodegradation of the mulch
7. Light penetration during degradation process
8. Microclimate (temperature and humidity in soil)
9. Splash dispersal
10. Nutritional status of the soil
11. Practicality in using the mat in very cold climates

These research results will be of interest to growers internationally as EcoCover achieves manufacturing and marketing penetration around the world.