What are the differences between agricultural plastic mulch and covers?

Agricultural plastic mulch and covers are both used in farming to enhance crop growth, but they serve different purposes. Plastic mulch is a thin layer of plastic film placed on the soil surface to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature. It is typically used for row crops and can be black or clear, with black being more effective at weed suppression. Covers, on the other hand, are used to protect plants from weather conditions such as frost, hail, or excessive sunlight. They can be floating row covers, hoop houses, or greenhouses and are designed to create a microclimate around the plants, providing insulation and protection. While mulch focuses on soil management, covers focus on plant protection.