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/

In this episode of Mulch Matters, we are joined by Dr. Carol Miles from Washington State University, for a compelling conversation about her recent trip to China to attend the International Strawberry Symposium. Our discussion offers a fascinating window into the contrasts and connections between Chinese and U.S. agricultural practices, particularly around strawberry production and plastic mulch use.

Carol reflects on the incredible technological leap she observed in Chinese greenhouses, where high-tech, hydroponic tabletop systems are now used in showcase facilities. But she also shares her experience visiting local farms after the symposium, where strawberry production looked much more traditional—though still impressive. One of the most striking takeaways was how small-scale farms in China can remain highly profitable and deeply integrated into the community, offering lessons in sustainability and land stewardship that may be overlooked in the U.S.

This conversation is not only an agricultural deep-dive—it’s a thoughtful reflection on culture, economy, and the future of food systems. Whether you’re a grower, researcher, or simply curious about how other countries are innovating in agriculture, this episode will leave you with fresh perspectives and new questions to consider.

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/