What are the differences between plastic mulch and plastic sheeting?

Plastic mulch and plastic sheeting are both used in agriculture, but they serve different purposes. Plastic mulch is a thin layer of plastic film placed on the soil surface to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and increase soil temperature. It's often perforated to allow plant emergence. Plastic sheeting, on the other hand, is a thicker plastic material that can be used for various purposes, such as creating a barrier to prevent root growth, controlling soil erosion, or as a cover for hoop houses. It's not typically used for direct soil contact in the same way as mulch. The thickness, material composition, and application method are the main differences between the two.