Understanding Whole Field Applications

While row mulch is installed on individual planting beds, broadcast film is used differently. It covers an entire field during a fumigation application from edge to edge.

Broadcast film plays a critical role in soil fumigation programs, particularly in large-scale cropping systems where uniform treatment is essential.

At TriCal, Inc., we work with growers to design soil fumigation programs that balance performance, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

What Is Broadcast Film?

Broadcast film is a 7-layer wide plastic sheet, typically ranging from 10 to 15 feet in width, with 13 feet being common. Multiple sheets are sealed or glued together to cover the entire treatment area.

Unlike row mulch, which covers individual beds, broadcast film creates a continuous barrier over the entire field.

Why Is Broadcast Film Used?

Broadcast film is most commonly used during soil fumigation to improve treatment performance.

Its primary functions include:

• Sealing fumigated soil
• Maximizing fumigant concentration
• Reducing emissions
• Improving pest management efficacy

By limiting gas movement through the soil surface, broadcast films allow fumigant to remain in the soil profile longer, improving overall results.

Barrier Levels Explained

Broadcast film is available in several barrier types.

Standard Film (High Barrier)

Represents the baseline level of barrier performance used in many applications. It provides effective soil sealing and reliable fumigant retention under typical field conditions.

Virtually Impermeable Film (VIF)

Incorporates a nylon barrier layer that further reduces gas movement compared to standard films.

Totally Impermeable Film (TIF)

Delivers the highest level of barrier performance by utilizing an EVOH layer to significantly reduce fumigant permeability.

Since the introduction of higher-barrier technologies such as TIF, many fumigation programs have shifted toward films that improve retention and reduce emissions.

Higher-barrier films are commonly used to enhance fumigation performance and support regulatory compliance, including potential reductions in buffer zone requirements where permitted.

Regulatory Considerations

In some regions, specific film types are required. For example, in California, TIF is required on all drip soil fumigated acres. Films must be approved and listed by the state for use in Fumigant Management Plans.

Please see the state website for approved films:

https://www.cdpr.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dpr_tarp_list.pdf

Modern barrier films can help growers meet regulatory requirements while maximizing treated acreage.

Solarization as a Non-chemical Option

Clear broadcast film can be used for soil solarization, a pest management approach that may be used with or without fumigants, depending on the program.

When used without fumigants, solarization is considered a non-chemical method.

When installed under proper conditions, including adequate soil moisture and strong sunlight, solarization can raise temperatures in the top 12 to 18 inches of soil to levels that are high enough to manage many soilborne pests effectively. Effective results typically require four to six weeks of consistent sun exposure.

Crops Commonly Using Broadcast Film

Broadcast film is most commonly used in crops and systems that require full-field soil treatment before planting.

Common applications include:

• Strawberry nursery production and select field operations requiring uniform pre-plant fumigation
• Specialty and field crops where widespread pest pressure makes targeted bed treatments less effective
• High-value cropping systems where consistent, full-field pest management is critical

These systems benefit from broadcast applications because they require consistent pest management across the entire soil profile, not just within individual planting rows.

Broadcast vs Row Mulch

Although both products are plastic films, their applications differ.

Row mulch focuses on individual planting beds and crop growth conditions.

Broadcast film focuses on whole-field sealing and soil fumigation performance.

Understanding the difference helps growers select the correct system for their operation.

Supporting Growers with Smarter Soil Solutions

Agricultural films are more than just plastic coverings. They are tools that influence soil temperature, moisture retention, pest management, and regulatory compliance.

At TriCal, Inc., we work with growers to evaluate crop systems, field conditions, and soil fumigation goals to recommend the appropriate film type and barrier level.

Smart decisions below the surface are critical to strong performance from the ground up.

For more information about our agricultural plastics, or to discuss broadcast film versus row mulch for your operation, contact us at (669) 327-5076 or email info@trical.com. Our team is ready to help you select the right solution for your field.

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