Plastic mulch use in agriculture has increased significantly in the last decade due to benefits like improved soil temperature, reduced weeds, moisture conservation, and higher crop yields. However, disposal of plastic films causes pollution, leading to development of photodegradable and biodegradable mulches. This review discusses the use of plastic mulches, focusing on biodegradable options. Key topics include the history of plastic mulch, limitations of polyethylene mulches, biodegradable and photodegradable mulches, field performance of biodegradable mulches, and their use in organic production. Despite benefits, removal of conventional polyethylene mulches remains a major constraint. Early photodegradable mulches were too expensive and unpredictable in breakdown. Biodegradable mulches are converted into CO2, water, and natural substances through microbial activity. Polymers like PLA, PBA, PCL, and starch-based blends can degrade in soil and compost. Biodegradable materials from petroleum and natural sources offer viable alternatives. However, some biodegradable mulches may not be suitable for organic production. More research is needed on the effects of biodegradable mulches on crop growth, microclimate, soil biota, and yields. Keywords: Plasticulture, Plastic mulch, Polymers, Biodegradable mulch, Biodegradation.Plastic mulch use in agriculture has increased significantly in the last decade due to benefits like improved soil temperature, reduced weeds, moisture conservation, and higher crop yields. However, disposal of plastic films causes pollution, leading to development of photodegradable and biodegradable mulches. This review discusses the use of plastic mulches, focusing on biodegradable options. Key topics include the history of plastic mulch, limitations of polyethylene mulches, biodegradable and photodegradable mulches, field performance of biodegradable mulches, and their use in organic production. Despite benefits, removal of conventional polyethylene mulches remains a major constraint. Early photodegradable mulches were too expensive and unpredictable in breakdown. Biodegradable mulches are converted into CO2, water, and natural substances through microbial activity. Polymers like PLA, PBA, PCL, and starch-based blends can degrade in soil and compost. Biodegradable materials from petroleum and natural sources offer viable alternatives. However, some biodegradable mulches may not be suitable for organic production. More research is needed on the effects of biodegradable mulches on crop growth, microclimate, soil biota, and yields. Keywords: Plasticulture, Plastic mulch, Polymers, Biodegradable mulch, Biodegradation.