Row cover

Definition

A lightweight, permeable fabric or plastic sheeting placed directly over crop rows to modify the physical environment, primarily used in integrated pest management to exclude insect herbivores and in applied ecology to create favorable microclimates. Materials range from spun-bonded polypropylene (floating row cover) to perforated polyethylene, with mesh sizes selected to target specific pest taxa while allowing light, air, and water penetration.

Etymology

From agricultural practice of covering planted rows; 'floating' distinguishes lighter fabrics that rest on plants without support.

Example

Spun-bonded floating row cover (17 g/m²) deployed over brassica seedlings excludes imported cabbageworm (Pieris rapae) adults and flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.) while transmitting sufficient photosynthetically active radiation for growth, eliminating the need for foliar insecticides during establishment.

Synonyms

• Floating row cover
• Agricultural fabric
• Crop cover

Related Terms

• Integrated Pest Management
• Physical control
• Microclimate
• Exclusion barrier
• Greenhouse
• Cold frame
• Mesh size
• Light transmission

Usage Notes

Distinguish from greenhouse film or high tunnels by scale and structure: row covers are temporary, field-deployed, and typically contact or hover close to plants. Effectiveness depends on complete edge sealing to prevent pest entry; even small gaps allow immigration of mobile insects like aphids or thrips. UV-stabilized grades degrade slower; lighter weights (0.5–1.0 oz/yd²) suit insect exclusion, heavier weights provide frost protection. Term is primarily used in agricultural entomology and horticulture; 'floating row cover' specifies the self-supporting, non-rigid subtype.