- Soil solarisation-heat treatment of the soil -

Soil solarization is a non-chemical, environmentally friendly method that uses the sun’s energy to heat and treat soil in order to control pests, pathogens, and weeds. Here’s how it works: 1. Preparation: The soil is first cleared of debris and thoroughly tilled. Often, it’s irrigated to increase moisture content, which enhances heat conduction into the soil. 2. Covering: A clear polyethylene plastic sheet is spread over the prepared soil. The plastic traps solar radiation and heat, much like a greenhouse, raising the soil’s temperature. 3. Treatment Period: The soil is left covered for several weeks (typically 4–6 weeks) during the hottest part of the year. This sustained heating can raise the temperature in the upper layers of the soil (usually the top 15–20 cm) to levels that are lethal to many soilborne pests, pathogens, and weed seeds. 4. Outcomes: The high temperatures can significantly reduce populations of nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and weed seeds, leading to improved soil health and reduced reliance on chemical pesticides. Soil solarization is especially effective in warm, sunny climates where the sun’s energy is abundant. It’s a simple, cost-effective, and sustainable method that can help establish a healthier growing environment for crops.