Characteristics and biodegradability of root-wrapping materials

This study examined the basic physical and chemical characteristics of the most popular root-wrapping materials: straw, paper, hemp bag and hemp. This study also covered the biodegradability of each of these rootwrapping materials in red volcanic soil and “Masa” soil, to evaluate the most suitable wrapping material. Results indicated that it is desirable for a root-wrapping material to be biodegradable, air permeable, water permeable, to absorb water, to be free from harmful substances, and not to damage the root as a result of its chemical reaction with the soil. We found that, of the commonly-used root-wrapping materials, hemp best met these conditions. We also found that all the root-wrapping materials tended to biodegrade virtually completely (approach a C/N ratio of 10) after 12 months burial.