Steaming is gaining steam

Gaps in effectiveness and increasing levels of resistance in weeds and diseases, as well as bans on and conditions governing the use of pesticides have led to greater interest in steaming.

Steaming methods can be applied in all areas of horticulture, both in greenhouses and on open fields. Increasingly, modern, effective and energy-efficient methods are being applied. In greenhouses sheet steaming is being replaced in some operations through the use of a steaming hood for the process of sandwich-type steaming. This involves disinfecting the ground to a depth of 25 centimeter. Initial experiences generated energy savings of 50 percent. This means that surface areas can be treated to a depth of 20 to 25 centimeter at a heating oil consumption rate starting at 0.7L per m², in order to completely remove weeds and soil-borne diseases.

Semi-automatic and fully-automatic steaming in particular are being used on open fields. Combating neophytes such as, for example, Japanese Knotweed and Yellow Nutsedge can be successful when using steam. Steam is also proving successful in combating weeds and soil fatigue in strawberry cultures, but also in tree nursery cultures. Steaming methods are also being used, last but not least, in weed control on public greens and parking facilities.

MSD will be at the IPM Essen, in Hall 3.0, Booth 3B52.

For more information:
MSD GmbH Dämpftechnik & Dämpfsysteme
Stollenberg 8
DE 77770 Durbach
[email protected]
www.moeschle.de