Hektar

Preparation of Seedlings:

• Seed Selection and Treatment:
  Select high-quality, certified seeds resistant to common diseases. Treat the seeds with fungicides (e.g., products based on Thiram or Captan) or biological alternatives (e.g., Trichoderma spp.) before sowing to prevent seed-borne pathogens.

• Soil/Medium for Seedlings:
  Use sterile soil or a pre-prepared substrate free from pathogens and pests. For disinfection, treat the substrate with steam (at least 70°C for 30 minutes) or use chemical disinfectants such as Metam sodium if necessary.

• Planting and Maintenance:
  Sow seeds in trays or beds, ensuring proper spacing to avoid overcrowding. Maintain optimal humidity, temperature (20-25°C), and light conditions to support healthy germination and growth.
  Use balanced fertilizers during the seedling phase, avoiding excessive nitrogen that may weaken plants.

• Hardened Seedlings:
  Before transplanting, gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days to harden them. This reduces transplant stress and increases survival rates.

Disinfecting Greenhouses/Tunnels:

• Physical Cleaning:

  • Remove all plant debris, old mulch, and leftover crop residues from the greenhouse or tunnel.
  • Wash the structure, including walls, roofing, and equipment, with water and detergent to remove dirt and pathogens.

• Chemical Disinfection:

  • Apply soil disinfectants such as Nemasol (Metam sodium) at 700 l/ha, especially in areas with a history of soil-borne diseases or nematodes. Cover the soil with plastic sheeting for 2-3 weeks to enhance the disinfection process. Ensure the soil temperature exceeds 15°C during treatment.
  • Disinfect surfaces (e.g., benches, trays, tools) with solutions of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) or hydrogen peroxide.

• Biological Disinfection:
  For an eco-friendly approach, incorporate biological control agents such as Trichoderma spp. or beneficial nematodes into the soil. These help suppress pathogenic fungi and pests.

• Solarization:
  During warmer months, cover moist soil with transparent polyethylene sheeting for 4-6 weeks. The trapped heat kills many pathogens, weeds, and nematodes, effectively sterilizing the soil.

• Air and Ventilation Disinfection:
  Use sulfur burners or aerosol foggers containing copper or sulfur compounds to disinfect the greenhouse air. This eliminates airborne spores and prevents fungal growth.

Preventive Measures After Disinfection:

• Avoid reintroducing contaminants by disinfecting all tools and footwear before entering the greenhouse.
• Use clean, pathogen-free water for irrigation and avoid overwatering to limit conditions favorable for diseases.
• Implement crop rotation and avoid monoculture to reduce disease pressure.
• Monitor the environment for pests and diseases regularly and take early action if issues arise.