hi folks, here's the URL to an article at the Agriculture Research Service (USDA). http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/oct99/sun1099.htm the item is about using clear mulch vs. pesticide in controlling some diseases, weeds & certain worm pests. although the method isn't for all areas, they specifically write about successes with pepper crops. btw, there's a VERY hi res JPG image of some peppers & tomatos that would make a nice wallpaper. check it out. click the image at the web page, then click on (k8605-3.jpg) it's 640 pixels, full screen. regards peter g