Solarizing your garden - who does it? How effective is it?

Done it in past and works well, timing wise it’s hard to do in beginning of season since it’s not hot enough.

I’ve done it mostly in August or on big flat bins of compost to try and germinate all the seeds or kill any possible diseases.

Did mine 2 years ago. Clear plastic over the soil for over two months in the hottest part of the summer. Last year I had far fewer disease and pest problems than I have in the past. I’m a believer in it.

ETA: After that I cover cropped with crimson clover until it was time to plant in the spring. I didn’t do a winter garden.

Yes you need to ensure the plastic is a few inches off the soil, edges stay sealed, and that the soil stays moist. Clear plastic is better than black.

It works great when I remember or have time to do it.

Empty Soda cans, beer cans, or water bottles work well to get the space needed.