A simple burst of steam may lead to bigger and more dependable strawberry harvests in California, according to the LA Times. Researchers at the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) have been testing boiling water vapor as a substitute for chemical fumigants used to sterilize soil for strawberry cultivation. These chemicals are thought to be harmful to the environment, wildlife, and even the farmers. Recently, the UCSC team involved four organic strawberry farmers in a trial where advanced machines injected steam into the soil before planting strawberries. Rod Koda, a longtime strawberry farmer, shared with the LA Times that the outcome included larger and healthier plants that produced more strawberries. The steam serves to eliminate soil bacteria, fungi, and weeds that can damage or hinder strawberry plants.
For a long time, strawberry farmers had no other option than to rely on chemical fumigants or risk losing their entire harvest to soil diseases like fusarium wilt. Organic growers cannot use such harmful substances, forcing them to take significant risks or resort to hydroponics. However, steam fumigation appears to provide an effective new option. Historically, steam has been used for many years in greenhouses as a pesticide. The idea of injecting it into soil is a new approach to an established method. Jenny Broome, a UCSC researcher involved in the study, noted that they are revisiting an older technology while finding more efficient ways to apply it.
Strawberries rank among California’s most important and widely grown crops, with around 35,000 acres dedicated to this delicate fruit. As strawberries thrive in shady areas, grow close to the ground, and have soft flesh, they are particularly vulnerable to various pests. Growing strawberries organically can be quite challenging, which may explain why agricultural technology researchers are working on new solutions to boost yields. For instance, GNN recently reported on a 3D textile originally created for insect-proof military body armor, which has been used as a protective cover for strawberry fields. This textile helped farmers in North Carolina triple their strawberry harvests by keeping insects out while allowing air, moisture, and sunlight in.
What are your thoughts on this innovative approach to organic strawberry farming?
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Source: Good News Network, by Andy Corbley