Black plastic sheeting for gardens is commonly used for weed suppression and soil warming, but it serves a very different purpose than reflective greenhouse covers. While black materials absorb heat and block light entirely, white coverings are designed to manage light rather than eliminate it. In greenhouse environments where plants depend on controlled sunlight, reflective materials provide an advantage by moderating temperature without sacrificing growth potential. Choosing between these materials depends on whether the goal is soil control or full plant protection.