Soil mulching materials, ranging from plant debris to synthetic plastic films, have been used for years in agriculture to manipulate soil temperature, soil moisture and alter the physical structure of the soil. Application procedures, costs and availability of mulching materials are critical considerations to the grower. Relatively simple handling, application and disposal procedures possible with petroleum mulch offer definite advantages. Preliminary studies reported here indicate that petroleum mulch was beneficial in promoting early germination and establishing stands in a number of vegetable species.