Choosing the Right Plastic Film and Mulch Types for Successful Strawberry Cultivation in Macro Tunnel

By: Corella Agro Greenhouses

Published On: January 14, 2026

Strawberries thrive when growers create the right environment for their growth. Hoop houses extend the growing season and protect plants from harsh weather, but the choice of plastic films and mulch can make a significant difference in crop yield and quality. Selecting the right materials for hoop house covers and outdoor strawberry mulch requires understanding the properties of different plastics and how they affect plant health and soil conditions.

This guide explains the main types of plastic films used for hoop houses (PE, EVA, and PVC) and the types of mulch films (embossed, cast, and blown) that support outdoor strawberry cultivation. Knowing their characteristics helps growers make informed decisions that improve strawberry production.

Plastic Films for Hoop Houses

Hoop houses rely on plastic films to create a controlled environment that protects strawberries from cold, wind, and pests while allowing sunlight to reach the plants. The three most common plastic films are polyethylene (PE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Each has unique qualities that affect durability, light transmission, and flexibility.

Polyethylene (PE)

PE is the most widely used plastic film for hoop houses due to its affordability and versatility. It comes in various thicknesses and can be treated with additives to improve UV resistance and durability.

Advantages

- Cost-effective

- Good light transmission (up to 90%)

- Flexible and easy to install

- Available in UV-stabilized versions for longer life (up to 4 years)

Limitations

- Can become brittle in cold weather without additives

- Shorter lifespan compared to EVA and PVC

PE film suits growers looking for a budget-friendly option that still provides good protection and light diffusion. It works well in moderate climates and for seasonal use.

Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)

EVA film offers better clarity and elasticity than PE. It transmits more light, which can boost photosynthesis and strawberry growth inside the hoop house.

Advantages

- Higher light transmission (up to 92%)

- Greater flexibility and tear resistance

- Better cold weather performance

- Longer lifespan (3 to 5 years)

Limitations

- More expensive than PE

- Slightly less UV resistant without additives

EVA is ideal for growers who want enhanced light conditions and durability, especially in cooler climates where flexibility helps prevent cracking.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC film is known for its strength and durability. It resists tears and punctures better than PE and EVA, making it suitable for harsh environments.

Advantages

- Strong and durable

- Good UV resistance

- Maintains clarity over time

- Can last 4 to 6 years

Limitations

- Heavier and less flexible

- More expensive

- Can release harmful chemicals if burned

PVC suits growers needing a tough, long-lasting cover for hoop houses exposed to strong winds or heavy snow. Its weight requires sturdy framing.

Mulch Films for Outdoor Strawberry Growing

Mulch films cover the soil around strawberry plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Choosing the right mulch film type affects plant health and fruit quality. The main types are embossed, cast, and blown films.

Embossed Mulch Film

Embossed mulch has a textured surface created during manufacturing. This texture improves soil contact and water penetration.

Advantages

- Better water infiltration

- Reduces soil erosion

- Enhances root zone aeration

- Helps prevent mulch from sticking to soil

Limitations

- Slightly higher cost

- May degrade faster under intense sunlight

Embossed mulch is a good choice for growers in areas with heavy irrigation or rainfall, as it allows water to reach roots more effectively.

Cast Mulch Film

Cast mulch is made by pouring molten plastic onto a chilled roller, producing a smooth, thin film.

Advantages

- Uniform thickness

- Smooth surface reduces soil sticking

- Good clarity for solarization

- Cost-effective

Limitations

- Less durable than blown film

- Can tear more easily

Cast mulch works well for growers who want a smooth, affordable mulch that supports soil warming and weed control.

Blown Mulch Film

Blown mulch is produced by inflating molten plastic into a bubble, then flattening it into film. This process creates a strong, stretchable film.

Advantages

- High tensile strength

- Good elasticity and tear resistance

- Better durability under field conditions

- Suitable for uneven terrain

Limitations

- Slightly higher cost

- Surface may be less smooth than cast film

Blown mulch is preferred for fields with rough soil or where mulch must withstand mechanical handling.

Matching Plastic Films and Mulch to Your Growing Conditions

Choosing the right combination depends on climate, budget, and crop goals.

• In cooler climates, EVA film for hoop houses paired with embossed mulch helps maximize light and moisture management.

• For growers on a budget, PE film with cast mulch offers solid protection and weed control.

• In windy or harsh environments, PVC film combined with blown mulch provides durability and resilience.

  
  

Consider how long you want your materials to last. Films with UV stabilizers extend life but cost more upfront. Mulch films vary in thickness and color, which also influence soil temperature and weed suppression.

Practical Tips for Using Plastic Films and Mulch

• Always check for UV resistance ratings when buying plastic films.

• Use thicker films in areas with strong winds or heavy snow.

• Select mulch color based on your goals: black mulch warms soil and suppresses weeds, while white or reflective mulch can keep soil cooler.

• Replace mulch films annually to avoid buildup of pests and diseases.

• Proper installation ensures films stay in place and perform well—secure edges and avoid wrinkles.