Soil Solarization: An Approach towards Sustainable Agriculture
Vinod Kumar*
Dept. of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India
Ankush
Dept. of Soil Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India
S.K. Tehlan
Dept. of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India
Ankit Kumar
Dept. of Entomology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India
Priyanka
Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Plastic sheet, Soil borne pathogens, Crop growth, Ecofriendly
Abstract
Soil solarization is an organic approach for managing soil-borne pests using high temperature produced by absorbing radiant energy from the sun. The method involves soil heating by covering it with a clear plastic film (2-4 mil, Note: 1 mil = 0.001 inch or 0.025 mm) for 4 to 6 weeks during summer months of the year when the soil receives the highest amount of direct sunlight. It is an effective tool for managing the population of soil-borne pathogens, weed flora, eggs and larvae of harmful insects. Being non-chemical in nature, it can be a useful eco-friendly option for pest management in organic food production. Increased plant growth and yield of annual and perennial field crops, vegetables and fruit crops usually occur by adopting this technique.
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Reference
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