Soil sterilant Basamid was re-launched to growers at Fruit Focus as part of a ‘CleanStart - start clean, stay clean’ campaign developed by horticultural crop protection specialists Certis.
“The benefits of planting into sterilised soil - that reduces in-crop pesticide applications - have been overshadowed by the poor environmental profile of some sterilant treatments,” said Peter Hingley, general manager of Certis.
He said that Basamid is a proven and viable option, that’s not ozone depleting, leaves no residues, is cost effective, and has high environmental and operator safety.
But, he reminds growers that using the same application philosophy as with methyl bromide - due to be revoked next year - may lead to disappointing results. “Bromide is a harsher treatment, wiping out everything in its tracks, which is why it has been so effective regardless of the conditions - but it also explains the environmental concerns. Growers now need to move on and find alternative treatments.
“Under the right conditions - that means at the correct soil temperature, depth of incorporation and soil moisture levels - Basamid will leave a weed, pest and disease free soil profile as effective as any other treatment. It also offers the added flexibility of application, either by growers or by a contractor.”
Hingley added that it’s important to work with and not against the changing demands on the industry. “Opting for more environmentally beneficial options makes sense for all concerned in the sustainable production of high quality fruit.
“Don’t put-off seeking alternative options until there’s no other choice. Dutch growers have found they can produce top quality fruit without using methyl bromide, and increasingly UK growers are finding this too.”
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