Biodegradable Mulch Background

In this activity, you will experience some of the data analysis work that a horticulture crop production expert conducts to discover better methods to grow specialty crops such as peppers, tomatoes and sweetcorn. You will also learn how Dr. Wortman and other horticulturists share their story with other scientists through reading and writing peer-reviewed scientific articles. Sharing science stories and peer reviewing leads to science-based decisions growers can use to improve their plant growing practices. To start this activity, watch the video that features our horticulture crop expert, Sam Wortman. Then answer the questions below to check for understanding of Dr. Wortman's goals.

If you are having trouble viewing the video click on Dr. Wortman's Research.

Quiz

Question

What is the goal of biomulch application? 

Looks Good!
Question

What would be a preferred characteristic of a biomulch material? 

Looks Good!

After watching the video, continue to the next page of this lesson to Kristina Alas' video. Kristina will walk you through the methods of Dr. Wortman's experiment, how it was conducted, and what he discovered about mulches.