One of the most serious threats to tomato production in Europe is the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV). For a number of years, tomato growers using above-ground systems have been applying strict sanitary and phytosanitary preventive measures to control diseases that have the potential to cause huge economic losses. However, history has shown that eliminating highly virulent pathogens from greenhouses is a complex and challenging process.
The ability of ToBRFV to spread rapidly poses a critical challenge to the stability of the European horticultural sector, as it requires higher standards of biosecurity in hydroponic production.
Ecofarm Storti, an Italian company specializing in ozone systems, develops innovative solutions to improve biosecurity in growing environments. "Our systems combine sustainability, effectiveness and cost-efficiency," says a company release.
"These systems have many advantages. They are sustainable because the ozone is produced from oxygen and consumes little energy. They are effective, because ozone is effective against viruses, bacteria and fungi in greenhouses and growing systems. Tests show it is effective against ToBRFV when used properly. And they are cost effective because the systems operate automatically, use little energy, and require no additional materials."
One of the innovations at Ecofarm Storti is the use of ozone to thoroughly disinfect greenhouses before transplanting. This helps to ensure a virus-free environment and complements the existing cleaning procedures. It also prevents cross-contamination between successive crop cycles.
Disinfection of drainage and irrigation water is also an important part of the strategy in conjunction with the prophylaxis system. Again, ozone is effective in neutralizing the virus in the water system and preventing further spread.
Giorgio Zaffani, biotechnologist at Ecofarm Storti: "The benefits of this advanced approach to biosecurity in hydroponic tomato greenhouses are well established and represent a valuable tool to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of ToBRFV, as well as other viral and bacterial pathogens."
The key to success is the combination of thorough greenhouse disinfection and continuous water treatment throughout the growing cycle. However, in the fight against pathogens, it's not just the technology that counts, it's the correct application of the overall strategy," he concludes.
For more information:
Ecofarm Storti srl
Via Castelletto 10
37050 Belfiore (VR) - Italy
+39 045 6134390
info@ecofarmstorti.com
www.ecofarmstorti.com