The plastic is used for different reasons. In cold climates it helps the soil heat up earlier in the spring. In all climates it helps keep down weeds. There are a number of threads on the Fruit and Orchard forum dealing with this subject. That's the best place to get specific information. This forum is mostly for Master Gardeners and others to brag or complain about the MG programs! LOL

Thank you, I wasn't sure where to post this because I didn't know why it was done. :-)

Also they put pesticides under the plastic to kill things in the soil.

Clear plastic is best for warming the soil.

Penny