Netherlands: Residue Free chicory with sustainable technology

A 2009 study shows that breeding a species that is residue free is tricky, mostly because of the resources required to battle Sclerotinia and Phytophthora. This, however, doesn’t deter Dutch Agricultural Research Centre Proeftuin Zwaagdijk from finding the technology to do exactly that. Proeftuin Zwaagdijk is specialized in carrying out crop protection research. With the GEP-certificate from the Plant Protection Service, Proeftuin Zwaagdijk is qualified for carrying out admission research for crop protection products. Recently, the Centre researched two forms of sustainable technology: the Sweep and electrolysis of water.

With the Sweep, sound waves are employed to kill harmful micro-organisms in the water. The intricacies of electrolysis are slightly more complex: the procedure involves the decomposition of water into oxygen and hydrogen gas due to an electric current being passed through the water. The water is then used to disinfect the circulation water.

Experiments using the Sweep showed limited results. The electrolysis however, after trialling the proper dosage of AquaNox, exhibited promising effects. Tests including both AquaNox and NOW water seemed to diminish infection by Phytophthora.

Consultation with the chicory committee will now determine whether the research will be continued in the coming season.

Source: Proeftuin Zwaagdijk