Agriculture and horticulture 

Biodegradable Plant Pot © Limagrain

Biodegradable polymers offer specific advantages in agriculture and horticulture. Mulching films – the most important example – are generally making rapid advances in these sectors: production of pure foods with a minimum use of pesticide is a powerful sales argument in vegetable-growing or organic farming. Ploughing-in of mulching films after use instead of collecting them from the field, cleaning off the soil and returning them for recycling, is practical and improves the economics of the operation. Biodegradable mulching films today are very well adapted to the location and fruit.

Other promising applications in agriculture and horticulture include: films for banana bushes, which have to be protected from dust and environmental influences; fastening technology; plant pots for propagation/cultivation; fertiliser rods; or pheromone traps, which no longer have to be removed after use.

Mulchfilm © Limagrain

Biodegradable plastics also offer opportunities for pot-plant marketing. Herb pots are a good example. Once the herbs are harvested, everything including the film can be composted. Alternatively, products can simply be planted into their pot, which is very convenient for hobby gardeners. Flower bulbs that can directly be planted into the soil in their packaging are also available. The packaging disperses quickly and then plant growth can begin.