Influence of different types of AGROTEX™ mulching material on the yield of perennial wall-rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) introduced in Moscow Region

Surface pesticide chemical treatment of leaf vegetables is forbidden in the Russian Federation. Therefore, the issue of protecting perennial wall-rocket from weeds and western black flea beetles (Phyllotreta pusilla Horn (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)) is relevant. The possible solution to this problem is the use of mulching materials in the cultivation of Diplotaxis tenuifolia (L.). In this paper, the effectiveness of various mulching materials was analyzed. This study was conducted during 2020 at in the Federal Scientific Vegetable Center, Moscow region. In the non-mulched control, the yield of greens for two cuts was about 1.2 kg/m2. Foil mulch provided a yield for two cuts 1.9 kg/m2, black perforated - 1.6 kg/m2, inverted foil - 1.5 kg/m2. For two cuts, the highest yield of greens (the earliest harvest) was obtained using yellow-black mulch - 2.8 kg/m2. Single damage to plants by this pest was revealed on foil and black perforated mulch. On black and yellow mulch, no damage to the leaves by crucifer fleas was noted. The mechanisms by which yellow-black mulch is most effective in repelling crucifer flea beetles will be the subject of further research. © 2021, Gaurav Society of Agricultural Research Information Centre. All rights reserved