In this episode we’re diving into a type of mulch you may not have heard much about—lignocellulose film (LCF). Joining me is Aidan Williams, who has been researching this bio-based biodegradable mulch made from renewable woody biomass.

Aidan shares her journey into agroecology, how LCF is produced, and why it could be a promising alternative to plastic and paper-based mulches. We also explore results from her greenhouse raspberry trials, insights on soil degradation experiments, and even consumer perspectives on biodegradable mulches.

If you’re curious about sustainable solutions for agriculture, or just want to learn how science and innovation are reshaping the future of mulch, this episode is for you! 🌱✨

This work is supported by Specialty Crops Research Initiative Award 2022-51181-38325 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed on this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

Note: intro and outro music credit to Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-motivational-ident-main-9923/ 

In this episode of Mulch Matters, we speak with Jazmine Mejia-Muñoz, Water Quality Program Manager at the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, about the intersection of agriculture, conservation, and plastic use in California’s iconic Monterey Bay region.

Together, we explore the deep-rooted history of plasticulture, the evolving role of biodegradable mulches (BDMs), and what it takes to transition toward more sustainable practices in high-value cropping systems like strawberries. Jazmine shares real-world insights from grower collaborations, lessons from field trials, and challenges of BDM use in rotational systems. From labor costs and landfill fees to microplastic misconceptions and grower education, this episode dives into both the science and human stories behind the mulch.

Whether you're a grower, researcher, or sustainability advocate, this episode offers a well-rounded look at why mulch matters—and how collaborative innovation can lead to healthier soils and cleaner waters.

This work is supported by Specialty Crops Research Initiative Award 2022-51181-38325 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed on this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Note: intro and outro music credit to Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-motivational-ident-main-9923/