Soil Solarization: An Effective Method for Weed and Pest Control
Soil solarization heats the soil by covering it with clear polyethylene sheeting during hot periods to control soil borne diseases and weeds. The technique has been commercially exploited for growing high-value crops in diseased soils when maximum daily air temperatures regularly exceed 35°C. Farmers of the Deccan plateau in India have long exploited a form of solar heating of soil, by plowing the soil to expose the subsoil when maximum daily air temperatures usually exceed 40°C and soil temperature may reach 70°C. Studies have showed that 50°C will kill almost all weed seeds. Using clear plastic makes it possible to … Continue reading